Pune: Hindutva Groups Demand Restrictions at Sarasbaug Ahead of Bakri Eid 2026

Swargate, 26th April 2026: Tensions surfaced in the city on Sunday after several pro-Hindutva groups staged a protest near Sarasbaug, raising concerns over crowd gatherings in the area and demanding restrictions ahead of the upcoming Bakri Eid.

According to a press release issued by the Hindu Janajagruti Samiti, the protest was organised to “protect the sanctity” of the historic garden and the nearby Shri Siddhivinayak Temple, which holds religious significance for the Hindu community. The demonstration followed a large gathering reported in the area during Ramadan last month.

Protesters alleged administrative lapses in handling the March 22 gathering and questioned whether adequate measures were taken to manage the crowd. Some participants raised slogans and expressed concerns over safety, law and order, and preservation of the site.

Among the key demands put forward were an inquiry into the circumstances that led to the earlier gathering, accountability of officials, and preventive measures to avoid similar situations in the future. The groups also called for restrictions on large gatherings in the area during Bakri Eid on May 27, including crowd control and monitoring of activities.

Leaders and representatives from various organisations participated in the protest, including members associated with the Vishwa Hindu Parishad and other local groups. The gathering concluded with a collective aarti.

In the statement, organisers said that if their concerns are not addressed, they would consider launching a larger democratic agitation.

There was no immediate response from the Pune district administration or police authorities on the demands raised during the protest.