Mumbai: In a strong show of concern over rising drug-related threats, senior members of the All India Sunni Jamiyatul Ulama on Monday met Commissioner of Mumbai Police Deven Bharti, urging immediate and stringent action against drug peddlers allegedly involved in the assault on Sayed Khalid Ashraf Sahab, a religious figure known for his anti-drug awareness work.

The delegation, led by President Sayed Moinuddin Ashraf (Moin Miyan) and Vice President Mohammed Saeed Noori, submitted a formal letter highlighting the seriousness of the incident. They stressed that the attack was not merely targeted at an individual but posed a direct threat to ongoing efforts aimed at curbing drug abuse among youth.

According to the letter dated April 13, Sayed Khalid Ashraf Sahab, associated with the historic Khanqah Ashrafia in Kichchoucha Sharif, Uttar Pradesh, has been actively campaigning to steer young individuals away from narcotics and promote healthier lifestyles. His work, the delegation noted, has allegedly drawn hostility from those involved in illegal drug trade.

Calling the assault “deeply concerning,” the leaders warned that failure to act decisively could discourage social reformers and activists from continuing their efforts against substance abuse. They emphasised that such incidents undermine broader societal attempts to tackle the growing menace of drugs.

In their appeal, the delegation urged the Mumbai Police to initiate a swift and thorough investigation, identify and apprehend those responsible, and take exemplary action against drug peddlers operating in the area. They also sought adequate protection for individuals working on anti-drug initiatives, citing potential risks posed by criminal elements.

The representation further underlined that prompt police action would not only ensure justice in the present case but also reinforce public confidence in law enforcement agencies. It added that strong measures are essential to send a clear message that violence against those working for societal welfare will not be tolerated.

The incident has also raised serious concerns about the growing nexus between drug networks and intimidation tactics, particularly targeting those working at the grassroots to combat substance abuse. It underscores the urgent need for stronger enforcement, community protection measures, and sustained awareness efforts to ensure that individuals advocating for social reform are not silenced through fear or violence.

Mumbai: A minor collision between two two-wheelers escalated into a violent assault in South Mumbai’s Dongri area, leaving three persons injured. Dongri Police have arrested three accused, One minor detained and are searching for others involved in the attack.

According to police, the incident took place on April 12, at around 7:30 pm, when the complainant’s son, Syed Mohammad Ashraf (30), was returning home on his scooter through Pala Galli. A minor collision occurred between his scooter and a motorcycle ridden by the son of a local resident, identified as Majid Lala.

When Ashraf questioned the youth about the collision, the latter allegedly abused him in filthy language and behaved aggressively. The situation escalated when the youth made a video call to his father, Majid Lala, during which both allegedly hurled abuses at Ashraf.

Later, at around 7:40 pm, the complainant, Syed Mohammad Khalid Ashraf (64), along with his two sons, was heading on scooters to attend a family function. When they reached Nishanpada Road near Dawood Fazal School, a group of 10–12 persons allegedly intercepted them.

One of the accused, identified as Piru, allegedly shouted, “This is the same person who speaks against drugs,” following which the group began abusing the victims. Despite the complainant identifying himself and attempting to pacify them, the mob allegedly attacked the family using chairs, sticks, bamboo poles, and a wooden ladder.

In the assault, the complainant’s elder son, Syed Moheej Ashraf, sustained serious injuries on his left hand and other parts of the body. The younger son, Syed Peer Zahid Shahid Ashraf, suffered injuries to his back and waist, while the complainant also sustained injuries on his hands and legs.

Based on the complaint, a case has been registered at Dongri Police Station against Majid Lala and others, including Raheel, Sahil, Zihan, and Arbaaz, along with 4–5 unidentified persons, for assault, abuse, and attempt to murder.

Dongri Police have arrested three accused, identified as Mohammad Jayan Parvez Khan (24), Mohammad Raheel Majid Khan (18), and Majid Khalid Khan (45), all residents of Dongri. One minor has detained. Efforts are underway to trace the remaining accused. Further investigation is in progress.

Mumbai: The ongoing war in West Asia has affected India’s textile exports and the prices of raw materials like cotton and yarn have increased, leading to a three-day lockdown in the industry. Therefore, to save the industry, Samajwadi Party MLA from Bhiwandi East Raees Sheikh has demanded a special financial package from the grand alliance government of the state.

MLA Raees Sheikh recently wrote a letter to the state Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Textile Minister Sanjay Sawkre regarding an immediate special financial package for the textile industry.
Speaking in this regard, MLA Raees Sheikh said that a survey conducted by the State Textile Corporation has revealed that the textile industry in the state has suffered a loss of Rs 4,000 crore in the month of March 2026. There are 9,48,000 power looms and 4,000 handlooms in the state. 39% of the power looms in the country are in Maharashtra alone. If the government does not help this industry, then reverse migration of workers will start like during the Corona era. The textile industry is the only industry that provides the most employment after agriculture. Bhiwandi, Malegaon and Achal Karanji are major centers of the textile industry. Due to the Gulf War, the raw material and export chain of this industry has been destroyed and production has been suspended for two days a week. In this context, MLA Raees Sheikh says that the state government needs to provide an immediate financial package to this industry.

Basically, this industry is facing difficulties due to expensive electricity. There is a fear of destruction if the exports of this economically important industry stop. If this happens, there is a fear of losing lakhs of skilled and unskilled jobs in the state. Therefore, MLA Raees Sheikh has strongly demanded in the letter that the state government immediately announce a financial package for the textile industry.