Stone-Pelting at Durga Immersion Procession Triggers Tension in Maharashtra’s Washim

Stone-pelting at a Durga idol immersion procession in Malegaon town of Maharashtra’s Washim district triggered tension on Wednesday night, prompting police to deploy additional personnel to maintain law and order, officials said.

The incident occurred around 10 pm near Tipu Sultan Chowk in the town, located in the Vidarbha region, after coloured powder thrown during the procession allegedly fell on a house, according to police.

Following the incident, some people allegedly hurled stones at the procession, leading to a confrontation between two groups. No injuries were reported in the incident, an official from Malegaon police station said.

Police personnel deployed at the spot intervened promptly and brought the situation under control. Additional police force was subsequently deployed in the area to prevent further escalation and maintain peace, the official added.

Following the stone-pelting, the organisers of the immersion procession initially insisted that the rituals would not proceed until those responsible were arrested, sources said. Meanwhile, a large number of people gathered outside the Malegaon police station, demanding action against the persons involved in the incident.

Police intervened and made necessary security arrangements to ensure that the situation remained peaceful. The Durga idol immersion rituals were eventually completed around 4 am on Thursday, officials said.

Police have identified a few suspects and launched an investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine the involvement of those responsible.

Authorities have appealed to residents to maintain peace and cooperate with the police during the investigation. They also urged people not to believe or circulate rumours that could aggravate tensions in the area.

The incident comes amid heightened public sensitivity surrounding religious processions and festivities, with police stressing the need for restraint and communal harmony to prevent further disturbances. Further details are awaited as the investigation progresses.