Eight members of a right-wing group have been booked for allegedly assaulting tourists at the historic Sinhagad Fort in Pune over their clothing choices.
- Multiple tourist groups were targeted at Sinhagad Fort between 2 PM and 5 PM on Sunday.
- Accused members of 'Samast Hindu Bandhav Army' allegedly cited 'Hindu culture' as the reason for the assault.
- Police have registered an FIR against eight individuals, including three women.
In a disturbing incident at the historic Sinhagad Fort near Pune, at least four groups of tourists were allegedly assaulted by members of a right-wing outfit. The confrontation reportedly erupted over the visitors' choice of clothing, specifically shorts and sleeveless attire, according to the Pune Rural police.
Details of the Assault
The incidents occurred on Sunday afternoon between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM. A 39-year-old senior manager from a private firm in Pune reported that the attack took place while his family was returning from the memorial of Tanaji Malusare, a legendary military commander under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
"They asked, 'Why are you wearing shorts?' Three men allegedly slapped me, while a woman dragged my wife. They kept shouting, 'Don’t you understand Hindu culture?'" the complainant stated in his formal police statement.
Police Investigation and Charges
Inspector Rajesh Ramaghare, in-charge of the Haveli police station, confirmed that the police have launched a search to apprehend the eight accused, which includes three women. The identified accused include Sanket Sanjay Patil, Ashish Dilip Apar, Revan Narayan Kokte, Sayali Sujit Chavan, Ketaki Suraj Jadhav, Amar Ramchandra Shirke, Kunal Kisan Nalawade, and Arya Praveen Kawade.
The police have registered an FIR under multiple sections, including voluntarily causing hurt, unlawful assembly, rioting, and criminal intimidation.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that such incidents of vigilante justice at heritage sites pose a significant threat to the tourism economy and the social fabric of the region. When personal attire becomes a flashpoint for violence, it undermines the freedom of movement and expression guaranteed to citizens.
The enforcement of cultural norms through physical violence is a direct challenge to the rule of law.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1: What was the primary reason for the assault at Sinhagad Fort?
Answer: The attackers allegedly targeted tourists because they were wearing shorts and sleeveless clothing, which they claimed violated 'Hindu culture.'
Question 2: How many people have been booked by the police?
Answer: The Pune police have booked eight individuals, including three women, for assault and rioting.
