Kalyan: As reported by Free Press Journal, the situation intensified on Thursday morning after Hindu devotees were reportedly prevented from entering the Durga temple located within the Durgadi Fort premises during Bakri Eid observances.
In response, Shiv Sena workers staged protests near the fort, raising slogans against the administration and attempting to cross barricades erected by police authorities. Several activists also performed aarti at the temple premises during the agitation.
Authorities Cite Preventive Measures
The district administration stated that the temporary restrictions were imposed as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order during Eid prayers in the vicinity.
Officials also clarified that no Islamic prayers or religious activities would be permitted inside the fort premises except on officially authorised occasions.
Kalyan, Maharashtra – The long-standing religious dispute surrounding the historic Durgadi Fort in Kalyan has once again come into the spotlight this year. On the day of Bakri Eid, entry to the Durga temple inside the fort has been prohibited for Hindu devotees. The district… pic.twitter.com/GaoM77sMVW
— NextMinute News (@nextminutenews7) May 28, 2026
Decades-Old Religious Dispute Resurfaces
The issue surrounding Durgadi Fort has remained sensitive for several decades due to the presence of both the Durga temple on the fort and an Eidgah situated at its base.
According to reports by Free Press Journal and other media outlets, Hindu organisations claim the site historically belongs to the temple, while members of the Muslim community maintain that the Eidgah also carries religious significance. The matter continues to remain pending before the courts.
Heavy Police Deployment In Kalyan
Following the protests, police personnel along with teams from the State Reserve Police Force were deployed in large numbers around the fort area to avoid any untoward incidents.
Barricades were installed and movement near the site was closely monitored throughout the day as authorities attempted to maintain peace in the region.
Long-Running ‘Ghanta Naad’ Protest
Reports noted that the agitation linked to Durgadi Fort has been continuing for decades in the form of the ‘Ghanta Naad Andolan’, originally associated with Shiv Sena leaders in the region.
The protest traditionally takes place during Bakri Eid, when restrictions are imposed on temple access while Eid prayers are conducted nearby.
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