Maharashtra: Social activist allegedly thrashed by BJP supporters
A social activist Pravin Surana was allegedly thrashed by workers of Bharatiya Janata Party in Warora, Chandrapur, Maharashtra, for criticizing state finance and planning minister Sudhir Mungantiwar, on Sunday. Surana, reportedly, slammed Mungantiwar on social media. The Warora police have registered non-cognizable offense against 15 people, including BJP district vice-president Baba Bhagade. Here's more about the row.
Mungantiwar was supposed to inaugurate facilities, but didn't
Surana was upset after Mungantiwar failed to inaugurate a shed at Mahatma Gandhi Garden and a gate at Gandhi Lake. He allegedly showed up late at the dedication programme on June 27. After it was past 11 PM, Mungantiwar left without inaugurating the facilities. Surana then made videos slamming the leader, and they were widely shared on social media.
On pretext of seeking apology, BJP supporters beat me: Surana
Later, BJP activist Madhukar Thakre approached police against Surana. He accused Surana of ruining Mungantiwar's image through a WhatsApp clip. But the cops didn't act. Cut to Sunday, Surana alleged Baba Bhagade and his supporters came to meet him on pretext of seeking an apology but beat him. Surana claimed the attack was pre-planned and assailants were waiting for him near Gandhi Garden.
Surana recalls details of brutal attack
"They thrashed me brutally. My mouth and face had developed swelling, and I was admitted to the local sub-district hospital for several hours," told Surana. He then filed a complaint against Baba Bhagade, Amit Chawle, Aniket Nakade and others at Warora police station.
Both parties have complained against each other, police say
The police said both parties have complained against each other. The offenses have been registered under non-cognizable sections (Section 323 and 506 of IPC). A medical report of Surana is being awaited. Meanwhile, Surana stayed firm on his stand and said as a citizen he was hurt. "However, my criticism didn't go down well with BJP leaders and they beat me up," he added.
