Pune Police Suspend Constable After Viral Video of Assault on PMPML Driver
Pune, 24th July 2024: The Pune city police administration has suspended a constable from the Motor Transport Department following the circulation of a video showing him violently assaulting a PMPML bus driver. The video, which went viral on social media, has led to public outcry and criticism of the initial decision to resolve the matter without disciplinary action.
The constable, identified as Rahul Ashok Waghmare, had initially ‘settled’ the incident amicably with the victim. However, the public’s reaction was one of dissatisfaction, as many felt that the lack of punitive action set a troubling precedent.
The suspension order reads, “On July 21, after completing your night duty, you were riding your two-wheeler when you came dangerously close to a PMPML bus near Wadia College. You approached the driver, Bhagwat Bapurao Torne, and questioned his driving. A video of you physically assaulting Torne subsequently went viral on social media.”
The order further emphasized, “As a policeman, you should have adhered to legal procedures by filing a formal complaint instead of resorting to violence. Your actions have compromised the integrity of the police force. Hence, you are suspended in accordance with the department’s rules and regulations.”
Waghmare has been instructed to report to the Police Inspector (Reserve) at the Police Headquarters in Shivajinagar to mark his attendance. The suspension aims to address the serious breach of conduct and restore public trust in the police force.
