Pune Police Respond to Incident Involving Senior Journalist Nikhil Wagle

Pune, 10th February 2024: An incident involving an attack on senior journalist Nikhil Wagle by BJP workers has been reported, stemming from a controversy surrounding the Nirbhaya Bano program organized by the Rashtriya Seva Dal in Pune yesterday.

The Pune Police, in their response to media inquiries, clarified that permission had not been granted for the event. They affirmed that while preparations were made for Wagle’s attendance, cautionary measures were advised due to a recent case filed against him in Pune City.

Although security arrangements were provided, Wagle opted not to utilize police security and departed in his private vehicle. However, en route to the event venue, the vehicle was targeted with stones, prompting police intervention. The individuals involved in the incident have been detained, and further investigation is underway by the Vishram Bagh Police Station and Deccan Police.

The genesis of the confrontation lies in BJP workers’ opposition to Wagle’s visit to Pune, citing his disparaging remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and senior BJP leader, former Deputy Prime Minister LK Advani. The demand to prohibit Wagle’s participation in the meeting was vocalized by BJP activists, who congregated outside the assembly venue, raising objections and slogans. Upon Wagle’s arrival at the site, the situation escalated as his vehicle was subjected to vandalism, including the breaking of the front glass and the hurling of ink. Additionally, some activists attempted to obstruct the vehicle’s passage by lying down on the road.

In response, Wagle emphasized that since the meeting was held in a private hall, formal permission from the police was not deemed necessary.