As per reports, the Malwani Police in Mumbai have charged Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) Nitesh Rane for his alleged hate speeches during the ‘Jan Aakrosh Rally’ held in Malwani on 03 March, 2024.

• The Maharashtra Police informed the Bombay High Court that criminal cases were filed against Rane in response to his alleged derogatory remarks during the rally.
• Additionally, BJP MLA Geeta Jain faced similar charges for hate speech in the Mira-Bhayander area during the January to March period of 2024.
• The ‘Jan Aakrosh Rally’ in Malwani proceeded without official permission from local police due to concerns over public order. Despite this, the rally, attended by Nitesh Rane, several BJP supporters, and Hindu organizations, went ahead, leading to a significant turnout at the BMC ground near Malwani Gate number one. During his speech, Rane reportedly made derogatory comments targeting a particular religious community and its leaders.
• In response to these events, several community organizations filed complaints against Rane, but initial actions were directed against the rally organizer for proceeding without permission.
• The complaints about hate speech and derogatory remarks eventually led to the Bombay High Court directing the police to provide details about the handling of these cases.
• Activists like Jameel Merchant protested against the hate speech, pushing for accountability and action through a petition in the Bombay High Court.