Pune: No Lathicharge During Palkhi Ceremony In Alandi – Pimpri Chinchwad Police Commissioner Clarifies
Mubarak Ansari
Alandi, 11th June 2023: The annual palanquin departure ceremony in Alandi took place today, with 56 Dindis of participating in the event. Following a stampede incident last year that resulted in injuries to several women, extensive discussions were held among key stakeholders, including the Principal District Judge, Charity Commissioner, and Temple Head Trustee, to prevent a recurrence of such incidents this year, said Pimpri Chinchwad Police Commissioner Vinay Choubey.
He added, “As a preventive measure, a decision was made to limit the number of attendees to 75 people per Dindi, and this arrangement was communicated in advance to all parties involved. The heads of dindi (procession) also agreed to adhere to these guidelines, and passes were accordingly distributed.
However, an unforeseen incident occurred today when a group of local youths attempted to enter the restricted area. Efforts were made by temple trustees and security personnel to explain the situation to them, but they refused to comply. In their attempt to breach the barricade, a minor skirmish broke out between the youths and the police. It is important to note that the police did not resort to a lathicharge or use excessive force during this incident. Contrary to some reports, there was no lathicharge carried out by the police.”
