Maharashtra probes woman cop's assault during Mahal riots

Maharashtra Legislative Council deputy chairperson Neelam Gorhe has ordered an investigation into the alleged assault of a woman police constable during riots in Mahal on March 17. This issue was also discussed in the Assembly, where BJP MLA Pravin Datke condemned the attack and urged quick action against those responsible. Gorhe called on the Director General of Police to identify and arrest the suspects swiftly. She is also looking into whether other women experienced harassment during the riots. The incident took place in Bhankheda, where a mob of about 500 people attacked police officers and damaged public property. During the chaos, a group targeted the woman constable, trying to humiliate her. Luckily, she was able to escape serious harm. In the Assembly, Datke described the attack on the constable as an assault on the law. He demanded immediate arrests and called for stronger measures to prevent future incidents. He pointed out that police vehicles were damaged and officers trying to restore order were attacked. On Tuesday, Datke criticized the city police for failing to prevent the violence, which he claimed was planned. He pointed out that the police presence was weak despite the area's history of communal sensitivity. Senior officers, including DCPs, were injured in the clashes. In response to the violence, the Nagpur police have begun detaining suspects and tightening security in Mahal and nearby areas. A case has been filed at the Ganeshpeth police station, and prohibitory orders are in effect for the second day. Mahal, known for its long-standing peaceful coexistence between Hindu and Muslim communities, has not seen significant unrest in recent years. However, Datke believes the recent violence aims to disrupt that harmony.