Pune: Chopper-Wielding Youth’s Alleged Love Interest Turns to Violence Near School
Shukrawar Peth, 2nd April 2024: A young man attempted to attack a minor girl, who is a student in class 11, with a chopper, allegedly motivated by a one-sided love interest. It is suspected that the attack occurred due to the assailant’s frustration over the girl’s lack of communication with him.
Following an outcry from nearby citizens, two youths who arrived on a two-wheeler fled the spot. The incident occurred near Jijamata Girls High School in Subhashnagar locality on Monday around noon, prompting fear among bystanders and students.
The individual behind the stunt has been identified as Mahesh Siddappa Bhandari, a 22-year-old resident of Janata Vasahat. Accompanied by a friend, Bhandari allegedly brandished the chopper while interacting with girls from his locality near the school.
Witnesses reported that Bhandari swung the chopper in the air, causing panic among the girls and nearby students. The sudden display of the weapon led to chaos, with bystanders fleeing the scene in fear. Subsequently, Bhandari fled from the area, but not before citizens managed to capture a photo of his bike, clearly displaying its registration number.
Acting swiftly on the information provided by concerned citizens, the officials from Khadak police station tracked down the owner of the bike and detained Bhandari for questioning. Investigations revealed that Bhandari, whose parents work as wage earners, had brought the chopper from home which was kept for wood-chopping purposes. He has no prior criminal record.
Senior Inspector Ravindra Gaikwad commented on the incident, noting that Bhandari was engaged in plumbing and housekeeping work.
As the girl did not complain, police have registered a case on its own. Bhandari has been charged with offences under the Arms Act and Maharashtra Police Act.
