Communal tensions escalated in Mira Road’s Poonam Cluster Society (also referred to as Poonam Estate Cluster One) after Muslim families brought 25-50 goats for Eid ul-Adha (Bakrid) sacrifice scheduled around May 28, prompting strong protests from local Hindu residents and Hindutva outfits.
A temporary shed built inside the society for the animals was demolished by Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) officials following complaints over hygiene concerns and violations of civic rules against slaughter in residential societies. Some families allegedly rebuilt the shed overnight, leading to a scuffle late Monday night (May 25).
At least three people were injured, including a Hindu youth attacked with a sharp weapon.Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal workers joined the protests on Tuesday, reciting Hanuman Chalisa outside the society gates. They attempted to bring a piglet into the premises, initially claiming it was for “Varaha Puja” before describing it as a symbolic counter-protest.
Police intervened swiftly, removed the pig, and relocated the goats to approved sites. Extra forces have been deployed in the area.VHP coordinator Harsh Singh alleged he was attacked with a knife during the clash, suffering a hand injury, and filed an FIR at Kashimira police station demanding attempt-to-murder charges (Section 307). VHP district minister Nagnath Kamble was also reportedly injured.
BJP MLA Sanjay Upadhyay from Borivali defended the protests, stating that if minorities follow Sharia over the Constitution, “we will answer goats with pigs.” He referenced similar tensions in Borivali’s Sumer Heights society.Police have registered cases against multiple individuals from both sides, and the situation remains tense but under control.
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