Republican Party of India (RPI) activists went on a rampage on Sunday after its Dalit member Vicky Dhepe, who was injured in an attack earlier this week, died.
More than 30 vehicles, including two-wheelers, cars, and police vans, were damaged, sources in the Police Control Room said.
The activists also vandalised two offices of Bhiwandi BJP MLA Mahesh Chougule, whose son Raju Chougule had been booked in an assault case. Banners put up by Mr. Chougule were pulled down.
Trouble in town
The trouble in the power-loom town, about 50 kilometres from here, started when the news came in that Dhepe, who was seriously injured in the May 11 attack, succumbed to his injuries at St George Hospital in Mumbai.
Dhepe and a few others were assaulted by a group of youth armed with iron rods and choppers, the police said, adding Mr. Chougule’s son was allegedly involved in the attack.
The youth were suspected to be members of the BJP.
The police had then filed a case under IPC sections related to attempt to murder (to be changed to murder now), criminal intimidation, breach of peace, and also the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act against nearly two dozen people, including the MLA’s son.
Attack on workers
The attack on Dhepe and other RPI workers was fallout of political rivalry, according to the police.
The RPI had given a call for Bhiwandi bandh to protest the death of Dhepe. — PTI
More than 30 vehicles, including two-wheelers, cars, and police vans, were damaged
