Mumbai : Thousands Join Peaceful Rally in Vile Parle to Protest Demolition of 90-Year-Old Jain Temple by BMC

Mumbai:Vile Parle witnessed a massive outpouring of support from the Jain community on Saturday as thousands gathered to protest the demolition of a 90-year-old Digambar Jain temple by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). The peaceful protest, termed the "Ahimsa Rally," drew participants from across Mumbai, reflecting the community's unified demand for justice and respect for religious sentiments.

Prominent political leaders, including Minister of Skill Development Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Vile Parle MLA Parag Alavani, Mumbai North Central MP Varsha Gaikwad, and Ghatkopar MLA Parag Shah, also participated in the rally. The protest march culminated at the BMC's K/East ward office, where community leaders submitted a memorandum demanding the temple’s reconstruction at its original site.

Protesters carried banners with powerful messages such as “We want justice,” “BMC chor hai,” and “We are Jain, we will not STOP; we will not GIVE UP,” emphasizing their resolve to oppose the civic body's action.

According to members of the Jain community, the BMC demolished the temple using JCB machines without adequate notice or sensitivity. They allege that sacred scriptures and religious artifacts were mishandled during the process, which has deeply hurt the sentiments of the Jain faith.

Speaking to the media, community representatives asserted the temple’s historical and spiritual importance. “This is not just a structure—it is a place of deep spiritual connection for thousands. We demand that the BMC rebuild the temple at the same location and issue an apology for the manner in which the demolition was conducted,” said a senior community member.

While BMC officials have yet to issue a formal response, sources indicate that the demolition may have been part of a broader anti-encroachment drive. However, community leaders argue that the temple had stood at the location for nearly a century and should have been preserved or relocated respectfully through dialogue.

Security was tightened during the rally, and police ensured that the protest remained peaceful and orderly. No untoward incidents were reported.

The incident has sparked a broader conversation about preserving religious heritage in urban planning and respecting the sentiments of minority communities. The Jain community has vowed to continue its peaceful movement until their demands are met.