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Muslim leaders decry 'forced' loudspeaker removal as Ajit Pawar convenes crisis talks

Muslim leaders decry 'forced' loudspeaker removal as Ajit Pawar convenes crisis talks

Mumbai, June 25 (UNI) Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar intervened today in Mumbai's escalating mosque loudspeaker controversy, convening emergency talks with Muslim community leaders and top police officials amid allegations of religious targeting.

The high-stakes meeting at Sahyadri Guest House brought together State DGP Rashmi Shukla, Mumbai Police Commissioner Deven Bharti, and prominent Muslim figures, including legislators Nawab Malik, Zeeshan Siddique, Abu Azmi, Waris Pathan, Sana Malik, Jallal Uddin, and Siddharth Kamble.

Community representatives accused police of unlawfully dismantling mosque loudspeakers under political pressure.

"Someone, some Somaiya, has created pressure in Mumbai. Because of one person, Muslims are being harassed," asserted Samajwadi Party state chief Abu Azmi, referring to former BJP MP Kirit Somaiya's alleged campaign in areas like Govandi.

AIMIM's Waris Pathan added: "Police are forcibly removing systems without due process, creating unnecessary tension."

Muslim organisations highlighted prior compliance with Bombay High Court noise regulations (45-56 decibels), noting there was no judicial mandate for blanket removals.

"Action should follow proven violations through proper notices – not abrupt dismantling," the delegation emphasised, having previously submitted grievances to Ajit Pawar.

The Deputy CM reportedly assured attendees of impartiality, pledging formal investigations into specific complaints while balancing communal harmony concerns. The controversy has intensified following alleged political interference in police operations, with community leaders demanding transparent, legally-grounded enforcement protocols.

No official statement was released post-meeting regarding potential policy changes or operational directives to law enforcement.

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