Tension at Durgadi Fort as rival Shiv Sena factions clash during Id-ul-Azha prayers

Tensions escalated in Maharashtra’s Thane district on Saturday (June 7, 2025) after members of both the Eknath Shinde-led and Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray-led factions of the Shiv Sena attempted to reach Durgadi Fort while Id-ul-Azha prayers were being offered at its foothill.

According to police officials, protestors from both factions tried to ascend to the Durga temple atop the hill during the course of the Id-ul-Azha prayers being held at the base, resulting in chaos in the area. Prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the CrPC were in effect, and several protestors were subsequently detained for violating the restrictions.

Leaders from both sides, including Shinde faction functionary Ravi Patil and Uddhav faction leader Vijay Salvi, led rallies demanding that “Durgadi Fort should be freed”. Their convoys converged at Shivaji Chowk, near the Durgadi temple, where slogans were raised by supporters of both groups.

“Police took measures to prevent protestors from both factions from reaching the fort. The protestors attempted to breach the barricades, triggering scuffles and a standoff with the police. We detained several members in preventive custody so that it does not escalate,” Deputy Commissioner of Police Atul Zende said.

Durgadi Fort has long been at the centre of a communal dispute regarding the control of a mosque located within its premises. Access to the Durga temple is typically restricted during Id-ul-Azha to facilitate prayers at the foothill. Members of the Shiv Sena have criticised the arrangement, alleging discrimination against Hindu devotees and calling for equal access to the site.

The Idgah located at the fort has been under litigation since 1976, when the Majlish-e-Mushavreen Majjid Trust filed a suit seeking control. In 2024, the court ruled in favour of the State government.

Published - June 07, 2025 10:41 pm IST