In a decisive move, Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar announced on February 16 that protests outside the offices of political parties within the Pune police commissionerate will be strictly prohibited. This announcement comes on the heels of a violent clash between workers from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Indian National Congress, which resulted in injuries to nine individuals, including party activists, police personnel, and journalists.
The violence erupted outside the local Congress office, triggered by remarks from Maharashtra Congress chief Harshwardhan Sapkal that were deemed controversial regarding historical figures such as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Tipu Sultan. Following the clashes, Kumar emphasized that the police would take precautionary measures to prevent a recurrence of such incidents. He confirmed that the stone pelting observed during the confrontation was not premeditated and assured that action would be taken against those identified through ongoing investigations.
- Protests banned outside political offices — to ensure public safety and prevent violence
- Legal action initiated — against BJP and Congress leaders involved in the clash
- Calls for police accountability — Congress leaders allege biased police actions during the protest
In response to the police's actions, Congress leader Prashant Jagtap accused the police of partisanship, claiming they allowed BJP workers to stage a demonstration too close to the Congress office. He expressed frustration that the police did not intervene earlier, stating, "The entire road outside Congress Bhavan was blocked by BJP workers." Jagtap has indicated that the Congress party may seek judicial intervention regarding the police's handling of the situation.
Moreover, Jagtap raised concerns about the involvement of newly elected mayor Manjusha Nagpure, alleging she participated in the protest and delivered inflammatory remarks. He criticized the police for not including her name in the FIR, suggesting it was due to instructions from the home minister, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. The Congress party insists on accountability and is prepared to challenge the police's decisions in court.
