Pune: BJP Leader Booked for Molesting Woman Police Inspector; Party Removes Him from Post

Pune, 25th June 2025: A shocking case of molestation involving a senior BJP office bearer and a female police inspector has come to light in Pune, triggering widespread outrage and swift political action. Pramod Vitthal Kondhare, Pune city general secretary of the Bharatiya Janata Party, has been booked under molestation charges following a complaint lodged by a female officer of the city police.

According to police, the incident occurred during Union Minister Nitin Gadkari’s visit to the Shaniwar Wada area. Kasba Peth BJP MLA Hemant Rasne was also present. During a break, Rasne, along with party workers and some on-duty police personnel, went to a nearby tea stall. It was at this moment, amid the crowd, that Kondhare allegedly molested the female inspector — not once, but twice — in a manner that left her feeling deeply humiliated.

The complainant informed her seniors immediately, and the matter was escalated to Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar. Based on her complaint and verification of CCTV footage from the tea stall, Kumar ordered the registration of a case against Kondhare. A formal FIR has been lodged, and further investigation is underway.

Reacting to the development, BJP leader and women’s rights activist Chitra Wagh condemned the incident. “It is extremely disturbing that a woman police officer on duty has been subjected to such indecency. After speaking with Pune BJP city president Dheeraj Ghate, I have been assured that Kondhare has been relieved from his post. A case has been registered and he has been arrested,” she said, adding, “I will personally follow up on this case to ensure he receives the strictest punishment.”

In his defence, Pramod Kondhare denied the allegations and termed the incident a “misunderstanding.” However, records show that this is not the first time Kondhare has faced a molestation charge.

The BJP, already under pressure to maintain its image amid growing scrutiny over the conduct of its cadres, acted promptly by removing Kondhare from his party post. Meanwhile, the Pune Police are continuing their inquiry based on eyewitness accounts and video evidence.