Pune: Brutal Attack On Anti-Corruption Activists In Wagholi Raises Concerns
Wagholi, 15th July 2023: Anil Kumar Mishra, the Founder of Team Wagholi Against Corruption (WACO), and Sushil Deo Pandey, a Core Member of the team, were assaulted by a group of unidentified individuals on July 12 at around 10 pm.
Mishra said that the assault was a clear manifestation of fear and insecurity among certain politicians and influential figures who oppose the development initiatives in Wagholi. He stated, “Their actions only highlight their apprehension about losing control over their areas. Although they have physically harmed us, they cannot break our spirit in our mission to develop Wagholi. Even if more attacks or incidents occur against me or any other members of Team Wagholi Against Corruption, we will not be intimidated. The entire Wagholi community stands united with us, and we will continue working tirelessly day and night to ensure the complete development of Wagholi.”
Providing an account of the incident, Pandey stated that he and Anil Kumar Mishra had visited Gulmohar Park behind McDonald’s to raise awareness about critical issues affecting Wagholi, such as road development, drainage, and water supply problems. After concluding their interaction with the residents, a group of six intoxicated attackers, whose identities remain unknown, intercepted them. The assailants subjected them to verbal abuse and launched a brutal physical assault. They even attempted to cause grievous harm. The attackers questioned their right to discuss the development of Wagholi, criticized their origins from Uttar Pradesh, and issued threats to hinder their efforts.
Vishwajeet Kaingade, Senior Police Inspector at the Lonikand Police Station, confirmed that Sushil Deo Pandey and Anil Kumar Mishra have provided a detailed account of the incident and are planning to file an official complaint with the Lonikand Police Station. A non-cognisable (NC) offence has been registered.
