FIR Filed Over Namaz at Pune’s Shaniwarwada as Backlash Hits BJP MP

Overview

• Police registered an FIR under AMASR Rules against three unidentified women seen praying in a viral video after an ASI officer’s complaint.
• Investigators are working to identify the women, with officials indicating they may use ASI ticketing records managed from Delhi.
• Security at Shaniwarwada has been tightened, and police intervened to control unrest when some protesters moved toward a nearby dargah.
• BJP MP Medha Kulkarni led a protest and a ‘purification’ ritual using cow urine with Shiv Vandana, arguing the ASI site is not a place for namaz.
• Opposition parties and BJP allies including NCP and Shiv Sena condemned the ritual and sought action against Kulkarni, while minister Nitesh Rane defended objections by citing ‘designated places’ for prayer.