The Ratnagiri police have denied allegations of an attempted forced entry into a mosque in Rajapur, Maharashtra, stating that the incident was part of an age-old tradition tied to the local Shimgha festival. Videos circulating on social media showed a wooden log being pushed against the mosque’s gate, sparking outrage and accusations of an attack. However, authorities clarified that this act is a customary ritual during the Madachi Yatra procession, celebrated ahead of Holi. Locals claim that while the tradition involves placing the log near the mosque’s steps, this year it appeared more aggressive as the log was thrust repeatedly toward the gate and even lifted into the air. They insist it was not intended as an attack but misrepresented online.

The situation briefly caused tension between the participants and those inside the mosque, who reportedly tried pushing the gate back. Police intervened promptly to control the scene, and no major clashes occurred. While some activists, like lawyer and social worker Wais Pechkar, allege the act was premeditated and demand legal action against 25-30 individuals, Ratnagiri’s Additional Commissioner of Police, Jayshri Gaikwad, maintains that no significant unrest took place. AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi condemned the incident on social media, criticizing Maharashtra’s Chief Minister. Meanwhile, police continue investigating the matter and monitoring inflammatory social media posts.