Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra | October 30, 2024:
In a recent incident that stirred controversy in Taloja's Panchanand Society, Navi Mumbai, members of the Muslim community reportedly objected to Hindu women lighting Diwali lamps and setting up festive decorations in the society. The situation escalated on October 29 when a group of men was seen confronting the women, threatening them not to proceed with lighting the area.
In a video clip that has since gone viral, one individual, identified as Ashfaque Siddiqui, can be heard asserting, “Lights won’t be put up in the society. I will see to it that no lights are installed here.” The Hindu women questioned the stance, asking if the decorations wouldn’t make the building more appealing. However, the response was a firm “No means no.”
Despite these objections, Diwali lights and decorations were successfully installed the following day, October 30, illuminating Panchanand Society in full festive spirit. The Maharashtra NDA government took swift action to ensure that Diwali celebrations went ahead as planned, underscoring the importance of preserving cultural practices and religious harmony.
An FIR has been registered against Ashfaque Siddiqui and others involved in the incident for allegedly preventing Hindu residents from celebrating the festival. Tensions had reportedly been building as both communities, with an equal presence in the society, had differing views on the Diwali decorations. The incident has sparked a larger conversation about communal harmony and respecting cultural traditions.
Local authorities are currently investigating the matter to address grievances from both sides and prevent similar issues in the future, reaffirming the need for peaceful coexistence and cultural respect.
