An FIR has been lodged against BJP councillor Suraj Bamane and two aides for assaulting Mahad municipal council chief officer Dhananjay Kolekar over a water pipeline dispute. The officer was struck with an umbrella and punched, prompting council staff to stage a strike demanding immediate arrests. Police have issued notices urging cooperation in the ongoing investigation and court proceedings.

Key Takeaways

  • BJP councillor Suraj Bamane and two aides booked for assault on a public servant
  • Violence erupted over unresolved water pipeline damage affecting Ward 6
  • Council employees launched a strike; police issued notice for cooperation in investigation

Mahad’s municipal council chief officer Dhananjay Kolekar filed a First Information Report on July 10, 2026, accusing BJP councillor Suraj Bamane (38) and his two aides, Kiran Patil (45) and Sagar Surve (28), of physically assaulting him. The incident took place in the officer’s cabin at the council headquarters after Bamane confronted Kolekar about a persistent water supply problem in Ward 6.

Background: Water Infrastructure Failure

The water shortage stemmed from a damaged underground pipeline that supplies Mahad from the Kurla dam. The pipeline was compromised during municipal sludge excavation works, leaving several wards without adequate water. Residents of Ward 6, represented by Bamane, faced daily inconvenience, prompting the councillor to demand immediate remedial action.

Escalation to Violence

According to the FIR, Bamane entered the chief officer’s cabin, questioned why the issue remained unresolved, and, after being told that the matter was under departmental review, resorted to violence. He allegedly struck Kolekar repeatedly with an umbrella, while one aide grabbed the officer’s collar and punched him, and the other verbally abused and pushed him. The trio were booked under sections of the Indian Penal Code for using criminal force against a public servant and for obstructing official duties.

Employee Strike and Political Reactions

Following the assault, municipal employees staged a sit‑in strike within the council premises, demanding the immediate arrest of Bamane and his aides. The strike will remain until the accused are taken into custody. Shiv Sena Mahad MLA Bharat Gogawale condemned the act, stating that elected representatives should never resort to violence against civil servants and urging party leaders to enforce strict disciplinary measures.

Police Notice and Legal Outlook

Senior police inspector Narayan Ekshinge confirmed that the accused have not yet been arrested but have received notices under the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita, compelling them to cooperate with the investigation and appear for court hearings. Non‑compliance could trigger more severe penalties. The case highlights growing concerns over political intimidation of public officials and underscores the need for robust safeguards to protect bureaucratic integrity.