Post-Election Violence Mars Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Municipal Poll Celebrations
Celebrations following the municipal corporation election results in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar turned violent late Friday. A mob attacked the residence of BJP candidate Bunty Chawariya in the Gandhi Nagar area. This incident marred what should have been a day of democratic celebration across the city.
Attack Follows Election Defeat
The violence allegedly erupted after Bunty Chawariya lost his electoral bid. While victory processions and celebrations were underway in other parts of the city, a group of youths targeted his home. Inspector Sunil Mane from the Kranti Chowk police station provided details about the incident.
"BJP candidate Bunty Chawariya's house was targeted by a group of youths armed with sticks and wooden poles soon after the election results were declared," Inspector Mane told reporters. "The preliminary probe revealed that Shiv Sena candidate Milap, alias Millu Chawariya, had also contested the election from the same ward, and he too had lost."
According to police, Millu Chawariya's supporters blamed Bunty Chawariya for their candidate's defeat. Acting out of anger over the poll outcome and what police described as an old rivalry, they attacked his residence.
Police Response and Arrests
Based on a complaint filed by Bunty Chawariya, the Kranti Chowk police registered a case against fourteen people. The list of accused includes Millu Chawariya himself. Police invoked several serious charges against the suspects.
- Rioting
- Unlawful assembly
- Damage to property
Inspector Mane confirmed that police have already arrested nine individuals. "Of all the accused seen carrying out the attack on CCTV camera, nine have been arrested," he stated. Police teams are actively working to apprehend Millu Chawariya, who is currently evading arrest.
Extensive Damage and Public Panic
The sudden violence created panic among residents of the crowded locality. CCTV footage accessed by police showed several youths carrying sticks and hurling stones toward the house. The stone-pelting caused significant damage to the property.
- Window panes shattered completely
- Multiple vehicles parked outside suffered damage
- The sound of breaking glass and stones hitting walls spread fear
Neighbors reported that the violent sounds forced many residents to remain indoors for safety. The incident disrupted the normal life of the community on what should have been a celebratory day.
Heightened Security Measures
Police Commissioner Pravin Pawar took serious note of the attack. He ordered immediate deployment of police bandobast outside the homes of winning candidates. This preventive measure aims to ensure no further violence disrupts the post-election period.
The political atmosphere in the area remains tense following the incident. Residents have expressed concern about what they see as a growing trend of post-election violence. Many worry that such incidents undermine the democratic process and create unnecessary fear in communities.
Police assured the public that their investigation continues. Authorities promised strict action against all those responsible. They emphasized their commitment to preventing any further escalation of tension in the area. The incident serves as a reminder that electoral contests should remain peaceful expressions of democratic choice.