Who Is Deepak Kate? BJP Worker Linked to Ink Attack on Sambhaji Brigade’s Pravin Gaikwad

Pune/Solapur, 14th July 2025: In a dramatic incident that has sparked political controversy, Pravin Gaikwad, the state president of Sambhaji Brigade, was attacked with black ink and grease in Akkalkot, Solapur district, on Sunday, July 13. The incident occurred when Gaikwad was attending a public event organised by Fattesingh Shikshan Sanstha and Sakal Maratha Samaj.

According to the police, the attack took place around 3:30 PM near Kamalaraje Chowk, shortly after Gaikwad stepped out of his vehicle. A group of individuals allegedly linked to the Shivdharma Foundation confronted him, threw black paint and grease on his face, pushed and manhandled him, and even vandalised his car by pelting stones.

Police Detain Seven, Including BJP Worker Deepak Kate
Following the incident, a case was registered at Akkalkot North Police Station, and the police detained seven individuals, including Deepak Kate, a known BJP worker from Indapur. The FIR includes charges of assault, intimidation, and property damage.

Deepak Kate is no stranger to controversy. In January 2025, he was arrested at Pune airport after a pistol and 28 cartridges were allegedly found in his luggage during a security check. He is also closely associated with Chandrashekhar Bawankule, a senior BJP leader, and previously held the position of Secretary in the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM).

Kate had earlier campaigned for renaming Sambhaji Bidi, a local brand, which eventually became Sable Bidi. He has now demanded that the Sambhaji Brigade change its name, claiming it misappropriates the name of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj.

Who Is Pravin Gaikwad?
Pravin Gaikwad, born in October 1968, is a civil engineer by qualification. Active in socio-political movements since the 1990s, he has been involved with groups like BAMSEF, Maratha Seva Sangh, and Maratha Mahasangh. In 1997, along with Purushottam Khedekar, he co-founded the Sambhaji Brigade, a Bahujan-centric cultural organisation. Gaikwad also leads a campaign titled Ahad Australia Tahad Canada, which encourages Bahujan youth to explore entrepreneurship and overseas opportunities.

Gaikwad is the founder of the Anandtara Group of Business and is known for his efforts in uplifting the socio-economic conditions of backward communities.

Tensions Rise Over Use of Historical Figures’ Names
The attack is reportedly linked to ongoing tensions around the use of historical figures’ names, especially that of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. Shivdharma Foundation activists have objected to the Sambhaji Brigade’s name, alleging it distorts or politicizes the legacy of the Maratha warrior prince.

The police investigation is ongoing, and further action is expected against those involved in the attack.