Upendra Bharti | HENB | Pune | April 28, 2026:: Tensions were reported in Pune (Maharashtra) on Sunday after several Hindutva-affiliated organisations staged a protest near Sarasbaug, voicing concerns over large public gatherings in the area and calling for restrictions ahead of the upcoming Bakri Eid.
According to a press release issued by the Hindu Janajagruti Samiti (HJS), the demonstration was organised to “protect the sanctity” of the historic garden and the nearby Shri Siddhivinayak Temple, which holds religious importance for many Hindus. The organisers stated that the protest followed a large Muslim gathering reported in the area during Ramadan last month, which they alleged created an “anti-Hindu atmosphere” and involved the presence of many outsiders.
Protesters alleged lapses on the part of the local administration in handling the March 22 gathering, raising questions about crowd management and preparedness. Some participants also expressed concerns related to safety, law and order, and preservation of the site’s religious character.
Among the key demands raised were a formal inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the earlier gathering, accountability of officials involved in crowd control, and the implementation of preventive measures to avoid similar situations in the future. The groups also called for stricter monitoring and possible restrictions on large congregations in the Sarasbaug area during Bakri Eid, which is scheduled for May 27.
Representatives from multiple organisations, including members associated with the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, took part in the protest. The gathering concluded with a collective aarti.
In their statement, organisers indicated that if their concerns are not addressed, they may consider escalating the issue through larger, democratic forms of protest.
As of now, there has been no official response from the Pune district administration or local police authorities regarding the demands raised during the demonstration.
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_Agency Inputs.
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