A significant political controversy unfolded in Dombivli on Tuesday when Congress worker Prakash "Mama" Pagare shared a morphed image of Prime Minister Narendra Modi dressed in a sari on social media. This post, accompanied by what BJP leaders called a derogatory song, ignited protests and a fierce confrontation between BJP and Congress supporters.

Pagare, 73, is known for his outspoken views in the Ulhasnagar area. His post was met with strong backlash from BJP members, who viewed it as an affront to the nation’s leadership. In response, BJP workers allegedly summoned Pagare and forced him to wear a sari during the protests. Nandu Parab, the Kalyan district president of the BJP, condemned Pagare's actions, stating, "Posting such a distasteful image of our Prime Minister is not only offensive but also unacceptable. If such attempts are made again to defame our leaders, the BJP will give an even stronger reply."

The Congress party criticized the BJP's reaction, with Kalyan district Congress president Sachin Pote defending Pagare. He remarked, "Pagare is a 73-year-old senior party worker. If he had posted something objectionable, BJP members should have lodged a complaint with the police instead of misleading him and then forcibly making him wear a sari. This act is an attack on freedom of expression." Pote also pointed out that BJP supporters often share derogatory content about Congress leaders without facing similar consequences. He called for police action against those involved in the incident.