Pune: MLA Ravindra Dhangekar Condemns Violent Attack on Journalist Nikhil Wagle, Calls for Strict Action Against BJP Workers (Video)

Pune: In a recent escalation of tensions, Kasba MLA Ravindra Dhangekar has entered the fray, denouncing a violent attack on senior journalist Nikhil Wagle and issuing sharp criticism against the BJP. Dhangekar has called for stringent action, demanding that police invoke Section 307 against the BJP workers responsible for the assault.

Asserting the essence of Maharashtra’s rich legacy, Dhangekar emphasised, “Maharashtra is a state of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Chhatrapati Shahu, Phule, and Ambedkar. This Maharashtra will not tolerate attacks on social reformers and intellectuals on its soil.” He affirmed that the people of Maharashtra would teach a resounding lesson to those who oppress intellectuals and activists.

The incident in question unfolded during the ‘Nirbhay Bano’ (Be Fearless) meeting held yesterday at the Sane Guruji Memorial in Pune. Scheduled to address the event were senior journalist Nikhil Wagle, social activist Vishwambhar Chaudhary, and advocate Asim Sarode, who were to speak out against growing oppression in the country and in favour of democracy. However, the gathering was marred by the disruptive actions of some BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP party activists who attempted to thwart the event by vandalising journalist Wagle’s car.

In response to the attack, MLA Ravindra Dhangekar condemned the cowardly assault on Mahavikas Aghadi workers who stood in defence alongside senior journalists and activists. Dhangekar questioned the BJP’s motives, particularly in a democratic society where freedom of expression should be upheld without fear. He questioned the BJP, saying, “In a democracy where everyone has the right to express their opinion freely, what BJP, who take pride in labelling Superpower, is actually scared of?

Alleging a premeditated attack orchestrated by the BJP with the collusion of police and the incitement of youth from Scheduled Classes, Dhangekar decried the incident as tarnishing the ideological and cultural fabric of Pune. He affirmed that Punekars would not remain silent until justice is served and urged for decisive action against the BJP.