Maharashtra: Shop bulldozed after owner allegedly raises pro-Pak slogans during cricket match

A scrap shop in Malvan, located in Maharashtra’s Sindhudurg district, was demolished on Monday, 24 February following allegations that its owner, a Muslim migrant, raised ‘Pakistan zindabad’ slogans during the India-Pakistan Champions Trophy cricket match. The action was initiated after Shiv Sena leader and Sindhudurg MLA Nilesh Rane lodged a complaint with Malvan Municipal Corporation, demanding strict action against the shop owner.

According to the Lokmat Times, the demolition was carried out after the scrap dealer, who was also alleged to be an illegal Bangladeshi migrant, was accused of chanting pro-Pakistan slogans following the dismissal of Indian captain Rohit Sharma during the match. The incident reportedly led to tension in the locality, with residents confronting the shop owner, which soon escalated into an argument.

The matter was subsequently reported to the police, leading to the detention of two individuals connected to the incident. The following day, local residents organised a rally demanding action against illegal Bangladeshi migrants and their alleged settlements in the area.

Rane took to social media to share a video of the demolition and expressed his support for the action taken by the local authorities. In his post on X.

The video of the bulldozer at work outside the scrap shop soon surfaced online, drawing mixed reactions from public and political circles.

The demolition followed widespread calls for action against individuals involved in the incident. Authorities confirmed that two suspects had been taken into custody for their alleged role in raising slogans.

Meanwhile, Malvan Municipal Council justified the demolition, claiming that the shop was an illegal structure and action was taken accordingly.

On Monday morning, residents of Malvan held a rally, raising concerns over the alleged influx of illegal Bangladeshi migrants in the region and calling for stricter enforcement against unauthorised settlers and businesses.

The incident unfolded as India posted a dominant victory over Pakistan in the Champions Trophy match at Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Pakistan, batting first, managed 241 runs adopting a cautious approach to avoid losing early wickets. However, Team India comfortably chased down the target with six wickets in hand, thanks to a stellar century from Virat Kohli — his 51st in one-day international cricket.

As investigations continue, the case has sparked discussions around law enforcement, political influence, and communal tension in the region.