Maharashtra Police Use UAPA in Beed Mosque Blast Investigation, Arrest Two Individuals

In Beed, Maharashtra, the local police have taken action under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act against two individuals. They were arrested in connection with a blast at a mosque in the district. The incident involved the alleged planting of gelatin sticks and the subsequent explosion.

The blast occurred early on Sunday, March 30th, in Ardha Masla village, Georai Tehsil. The timing was just before the Ramzan Eid celebrations. While there were no injuries, the interior of the mosque sustained damage from the explosion.

The police apprehended Vijay Rama Gavhane, aged 22, and Sriram Ashok Sagde, aged 24. They are accused of attempting to destroy the religious structure. Additionally, the accused have been charged under relevant sections of the Heavy Substances Act.

Following the incident, the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) had urged the Maharashtra government to apply the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) to those responsible. An AIMIM spokesperson emphasized the need for strict legal measures, including fast-track court proceedings and severe penalties.

The police reported that the accused allegedly used gelatin to cause the explosion. The Superintendent of Police (SP), Navneet Kanwat, stated that the village sarpanch alerted the police around 4 am. The police and the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS) responded to the scene. The investigation led to the identification and arrest of the two suspects before 6 am.