Several Hindutva activists booked after Hanuman Chalisa recitation at Malegaon Municipal Office following the offering of Namaz.

Sukriti Pathak | HENB | Malegaon | March 2, 2026:: : Tensions flared in Maharashtra’s Malegaon after a group of Hindutva activists allegedly chanted the Hanuman Chalisa inside the office of the Municipal Commissioner in protest against the recitation of Namaz, prompting police to register a case in connection with the incident.

The controversy began following remarks circulating locally that “Namaz Pathan” should be answered with the recitation of the Hanuman Chalisa. The statement drew sharp reactions from political and community groups, further intensifying the already sensitive atmosphere in the town.

Former Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Member of Parliament Kirit Somaiya, along with several Hindutva activists, strongly objected to the decision that reportedly allowed the recitation of Namaz in the Municipal Commissioner’s premises. They demanded criminal action against those responsible, alleging that government offices should not be used for religious activities.

Subsequently, a group of activists gathered at the Municipal Commissioner’s office in Malegaon and chanted the Hanuman Chalisa as a form of protest against the reported recitation of Namaz. Authorities stated that the act was carried out inside the administrative premises, which led to concerns over maintaining order and adherence to official protocols within government buildings.

Following the incident, the local police registered a case against the Hindutva activists involved in the chanting. Officials indicated that the action was taken to address alleged violations of public order and to prevent escalation of communal tensions in the area. The specific charges have not yet been detailed publicly.

Police sources emphasized that Malegaon, a communally sensitive region with a history of sporadic tensions, requires careful handling of religious and political matters. Law enforcement authorities have appealed to residents to maintain peace and avoid actions that could disturb communal harmony.

Meanwhile, political reactions continue to emerge. Supporters of the activists argue that their actions were a response to what they perceive as unequal treatment, while critics maintain that government offices must remain neutral spaces, free from religious demonstrations of any kind.

The administration has not yet issued a detailed statement regarding the alleged recitation of Namaz within the Municipal Commissioner’s office. However, officials reiterated their commitment to upholding the law and ensuring that public institutions function in accordance with established regulations.

As investigations proceed, authorities have increased vigilance in the area to prevent any further incidents.

Interestingly, it is observed that wherever Muslims are in the majority, they seek to assert dominance over non-Muslims in an Islamic way. This is not an isolated incident in Malegaon; it is evident across India and is surfaced as a worldwide phenomenon.
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_Agency Inputs.