Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Apr 16: Police have arrested four individuals, including a minor, for allegedly assaulting religious leader Maulana Khalid Ashraf and his two sons with sticks and chairs in the Dongri area on Sunday.

According to the Dongri Police Station, the incident began after a minor dispute in which a local boy allegedly hit the scooter of the Maulana’s son, Moiz, in Pala Galli. The situation later escalated into a violent confrontation.

A case of attempt to murder has been registered under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) against Mohammad Jina Parez Khan (24), Sahil Manzil Masjid Khan (18), and Majid Khalid Khan (45). A minor has also been detained and booked under provisions of the Juvenile Justice Act.

Police said the violence intensified later in the evening when Maulana Khalid Ashraf and his sons were confronted near Daud Fazal High School while they were heading to a family function. The group allegedly turned into a mob of around 15 people and attacked them using sticks, bamboo rods, and chairs.

The victims sustained serious injuries and were admitted for medical treatment. Community leaders subsequently visited the police station and demanded strict action against the accused.

Local MLA Amin Patel visited J J Hospital to ensure medical care for the injured and described the assault as “shocking and shameful,” given the victim’s standing as a respected cleric.

Maulana Ashraf stated that he attempted to identify himself during the attack but was still assaulted, alleging that the attackers intended to kill him and his sons.

Police confirmed that the arrested accused do not have prior criminal records. Investigations are ongoing to identify additional suspects involved in the incident.

The cleric has also appealed for peace, urging his followers not to take the law into their own hands and instead allow authorities to proceed with legal action.