The violence also caused massive destruction to properties in the Muslim-majority areas. According to the local residents, police refused to step in during the violence and sometimes actively participated in the destruction of property, along with the right-wing mob.Eight workers of the VHP and Bajrang Dal had surrendered before the police two days after the violence, only to get bail that evening from the court.According to Cyber DCP Lohit Matani, Fahim Khan, who has been dubbed the “key accused” in the violence, is accused of “editing and circulating the video of the protest against Aurangzeb due to which the riots spread.” He is also accused of “glorifying the violent videos.”Meanwhile, similar to other recent incidents of communally instigated violence including that in Sambhal, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday said bulldozer action will be used against the accused, “wherever required.””Whatever damage has happened will be recovered from the rioters. If they do not pay the money, then their property will be sold for the recovery. Wherever required, bulldozers will also be used,” Fadnavis was quoted as saying by ANI.The CM also said that individuals who incited violence through social media will be treated as co-accused. Fadnavis’ statement on punitive bulldozer action comes amidst a Supreme Court-ordered stay on such measures.”The chilling sight of a bulldozer demolishing a building, when authorities have failed to follow the basic principles of natural justice and have acted without adhering to the principle of due process, reminds one of a lawless state of affairs, where might was right,” the apex court had noted in its November 2024 order.(With inputs from PTI, ANI)
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