NCP (SP) spokesperson Vikas Lawande attacked with ink in Pune, FIR lodged

NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) spokesperson Vikas Lawande was allegedly attacked with black ink in Pune district on Saturday, prompting strong political reactions and calls for swift police action.

The incident took place at Mhatobachi Alandi around 10 a.m. when Lawande was returning from a religious discourse programme. According to eyewitnesses and videos circulating on social media, a group allegedly led by right-wing preacher Sangram Bhandare intercepted his vehicle, threw black ink at him and manhandled him before fleeing the scene.

Lawande also alleged that one of the attackers threatened him with a firearm during the confrontation. Police have since registered a case at Loni Kalbhor Police Station against Sangram Bhandare, Akshay Kanchan and several others in connection with the attack. The case includes charges under the Arms Act, following allegations that a pistol was brandished during the incident.

The confrontation is believed to have stemmed from Lawande’s recent remarks regarding the Warkari sect. After an article by NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar on alleged “infiltrators” within the sect, Lawande reportedly released a list naming 20 individuals, including spiritual leaders, whom he described as “regressive elements”. Videos from the scene purportedly show Bhandare warning Lawande against criticising religious gurus.

Following the attack, Lawande staged a protest outside the police station, demanding the immediate arrest of those involved.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Sagar Kavade said authorities were reviewing video footage and carrying out legal procedures linked to the FIR. Security has also been tightened in and around Alandi to prevent further tensions between political activists and religious groups.

The attack triggered widespread condemnation from opposition leaders. NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar demanded strict action against those responsible and sought police protection for Lawande, alleging that failure to act would raise questions about political patronage behind the assault.

State Congress spokesperson Sachin Sawant also criticised the incident, saying violence had no place in religious traditions and urging action against those responsible.

However, NCP MLA Sangram Jagtap defended the ink attack, claiming it reflected public anger over remarks made against Hindu religious figures.

Meanwhile, the NCP (SP) has warned of statewide protests if the accused, particularly Sangram Bhandare, are not arrested within 24 hours.

With IANS inputs