Tension after Bhoomata activists storm Mahalaxmi temple in Kolhapur

Claims and counter claims were made by both the groups on whether Trupti Desai entered the sanctum sanctorum or not

Tension prevailed in Kolhapur after a group of Bhoomata Ranragini activists entered the sanctum sanctorum of Mahalaxmi temple amid physical protests by local devotees and workers of Hindu organisations.

Bhoomata Ranragini activist Trupti Desai had entered Shani Shingnapur temple last week. (HT file photo)

Police, who escorted Bhoomata Ranragini leader Trupti Desai to the temple, also faced wrath from the devotees. A large number of devotees, including women, tried to stop Desai.

The Bhoomata Ranragini activists were heckled by the devotees when Desai was proceeding to the sanctum sanctorum.

Unidentified persons also threw ink on the police, who were escorting Desai and her supporters.

Devotees also sloganeered against Desai calling her actions a meagre “stunt”. Claims and counter claims were made by both the groups on whether Desai entered the sanctum sanctorum or not. However, witnesses said she entered inside amid chaos and attempt by another group to stop her.

Additional police force was deployed outside the Mahalaxmi temple considering the high-voltage drama and strong opposition to Desai’s entry inside the sanctum sanctorum.

Shops and all other activities were closed throughout the day in protest against Desai’s plan to enter the sanctum sanctorum.