Pune police apprehend attackers of cop in Hadapsar

On a Sunday afternoon around 4 PM, a police officer named API Ratnakar Gaikwad was attacked with a machete while attempting to intervene in an argument in Hadapsar, Pune. The assailants, identified as 19-year-old Nihalsingh Mannusingh Tak and 20-year-old Rahulsingh Ravindrasingh Bhond, were arrested within 12 hours of the incident following a tip-off. The attack resulted in a severe head injury for Gaikwad, who is currently receiving medical treatment. The incident has sparked significant public outcry, with the Nationalist Congress Party staging protests demanding the resignation of Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who also serves as the Home Minister. Party officials claim that the law and order situation in Pune has deteriorated under his leadership, citing the increasing frequency of violent crimes and the audacity of criminals. Concerns have been raised by various political figures, including Baramati MP Supriya Sule, who questioned whether criminals in Pune fear law enforcement. Congress MLA Ravindra Dhangekar expressed shame over the attack on police officers, emphasizing the growing crime rates in the city. Aam Aadmi Party spokesperson Mukund Kirdat called for the Home Minister to prioritize law and order over political campaigning. The incident highlights a troubling trend of rising violence and criminal activity in Pune, with reports of gangs operating openly and young individuals carrying weapons. The attack on a police officer underscores the urgent need for effective measures to restore public safety and confidence in law enforcement.