Pravin Gaikwad Attacked with Ink in Solapur
At an event organized by the Fattesingh Education Institute and Sakal Maratha Samaj in Akkalkot, Solapur, the state president of the Maratha outfit Sambhaji Brigade, Pravin Gaikwad, was attacked with black ink.
Details of the Attack
Pravin Gaikwad, who was the chief guest at the event, was ambushed while walking towards the venue with his supporters. Amidst firecrackers and a band procession, a man approached him, held his arm, and poured ink on him. Subsequently, two more individuals followed, with one smearing ink on his face.
Alleged Aggression
Following the attack, Gaikwad attempted to leave the area but was reportedly pursued by the group. They not only assaulted one of his associates but also damaged his car. The attackers demanded a change in the name of his organization and chanted slogans like “Jai Bhavani, Jai Shivaji.”
Who Is Behind the Attack?
The ink attack has been claimed by the Shivdharma Foundation, with Deepak Kate, the group’s Indapur president, believed to have orchestrated the assault. The foundation has been vocal against the name “Sambhaji Brigade,” advocating a change to “Dharmaveer Sambhaji Maharaj Brigade.”
Recent Activism by Shivdharma Foundation
In a bid to push for the name change, the Shivdharma Foundation has organized rallies in various cities, with Kate at the forefront. Notably, their activities have met with opposition and legal implications in the recent past.
Aftermath of the Attack
Despite the ordeal, Pravin Gaikwad was lauded by Shivvyakhyatak Shivratna Shete. Gaikwad refrained from immediate comments, citing the need for an appropriate time. He underwent an eye examination following the incident.
Political Responses
Various political figures, including NCP MPs Amol Kolhe, Jitendra Awhad, and Rohit Pawar, have condemned the attack on Gaikwad. They have raised concerns about the safety of progressive voices and cultural harmony in Maharashtra, urging authorities to investigate the matter.
These recent events underscore the challenges faced by individuals advocating for social reform amidst ideological differences and political tensions.
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