A 41-year-old Muslim man, M Muhamed Ayaz, has been arrested for allegedly disposing of meat waste in the parking area of the Koniyamman temple on Raja Street, Coimbatore, sparking communal tensions. This incident has raised fears of potential clashes between communities following the DMK’s recent election victory, which some believe has emboldened certain minority groups.
Ayaz, from Podanur, faces charges under Sections 153A (promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion), 504 (intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of the peace), and 290 (public nuisance) of the Indian Penal Code. Police reported that Ayaz collected chicken and mutton waste from his brother Mohammed Vaise’s meat shop in Gandhi Park and transported it on his scooter to the temple area, where he dumped it around 9:30 AM on 1 June 2024.
The incident has outraged Hindu groups and devotees, prompting Hindu Munnani leaders to demand strict action. They circulated photos and videos of the meat waste on social media, urging authorities to respond promptly.
Following public complaints, local police and sanitation workers quickly cleaned the area. Ayaz was arrested on 5 June 2024 and placed in judicial custody at Coimbatore Central Prison on 6 June 2024. Initial police investigations revealed Ayaz had committed similar acts twice before, raising questions about his intentions.
Police sub-inspector Thiyagaraj filed a complaint at the Variety Hall Road police station, noting that such actions could incite communal violence. This led to Ayaz’s arrest and the filing of an FIR under the relevant IPC sections.
Man Remanded for Dumping Meat Wastes Near Koniamman Temple Car in Coimbatore.https://t.co/1U1gf2GDwo pic.twitter.com/sNilZNMOEA
— SimpliCityCoimbatore (@simplicitycbe) June 7, 2024
Hindu Munnani state secretary Kishore Kumar condemned Ayaz’s actions as intentional and provocative, questioning why he chose to dump the waste near the temple instead of a designated disposal area. Kumar also criticized the police for not labeling Ayaz as mentally challenged or intoxicated, as had been done in previous cases. He emphasized Coimbatore’s sensitivity to communal clashes, particularly attacks on Sangh Parivar leaders. Kumar suggested that Ayaz’s actions could be prosecuted under the Goondas Act for interfering with religious practices and posing a threat to public health and environmental safety.
Police intervened after receiving complaints about a foul odour from the temple parking area. Initial fears suggested the smell might indicate a decomposing body, but an inspection revealed meat waste. CCTV footage identified Ayaz as the perpetrator, leading to his arrest.
Authorities and community leaders are advocating for stronger measures to prevent such incidents and ensure communal harmony in Coimbatore.
(with inputs from Organiser)
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