NCP(SP) spokesperson Vikas Lawande attacked with black ink in Pune, FIR filed
Synopsis
NCP(SP) spokesperson Vikas Lawande was attacked with black ink and allegedly threatened with a firearm at Mhatobachi Alandi in Pune on 9 May, with a group led by preacher Sangram Bhandare named in the FIR. The incident has ignited a political storm in Maharashtra, with the NCP(SP) warning of state-wide protests if arrests are not made within 24 hours.
Key Takeaways
NCP(SP) spokesperson Vikas Lawande was attacked with black ink at Mhatobachi Alandi, Pune on 9 May 2025 at around 10 am .
A group led by preacher Sangram Bhandare is accused of the attack; an FIR has been filed against Bhandare , Akshay Kanchan , and 10–12 others at Loni Kalbhor Police Station .
The case has been registered under the Arms Act of 1959 following allegations that a firearm was brandished during the attack.
NCP(SP) legislator Rohit Pawar demanded immediate arrest of the accused and police protection for Lawande, warning the government would be held responsible for any harm.
NCP(SP) has threatened state-wide protests if Sangram Bhandare is not arrested within 24 hours .
NCP legislator Sangram Jagtap broke ranks by publicly congratulating Bhandare for the act.
NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) spokesperson Vikas Lawande was allegedly attacked with black ink on Saturday, 9 May at Mhatobachi Alandi in Pune district, triggering sharp political condemnation across party lines. The incident occurred around 10 am as Lawande was returning from a religious discourse (pravachan).
How the Attack Unfolded
According to eyewitness accounts and a viral video of the incident, a group led by right-wing preacher Sangram Bhandare intercepted Lawande's vehicle, flung black ink at him, manhandled him, and allegedly brandished a firearm before fleeing the scene. In the video, Bhandare can be heard shouting,
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Vikas Lawande and why was he attacked?
Vikas Lawande is a spokesperson of the NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) faction. He was allegedly attacked with black ink at Mhatobachi Alandi in Pune on 9 May 2025 after he released a list of 20 individuals, including prominent spiritual figures, labelling them 'regressive elements' within the Warkari sect — remarks that provoked sharp backlash from religious groups.
Who has been named in the FIR for the attack on Vikas Lawande?
An FIR has been registered at Loni Kalbhor Police Station against preacher Sangram Bhandare, Akshay Kanchan, and 10 to 12 others. The case also includes charges under the Arms Act of 1959 following Lawande's allegation that a pistol was brandished during the attack.
What action has the police taken after the Pune ink attack?
Deputy Commissioner of Police Sagar Kavade confirmed that the case registration process was underway and that action was being taken after reviewing video footage. Security has been tightened around Alandi to prevent further clashes.
What has the NCP(SP) threatened if arrests are not made?
The NCP(SP) has warned of state-wide protests if Sangram Bhandare is not apprehended within 24 hours of the attack. MLA Rohit Pawar also warned that if no FIR was filed by afternoon, he would personally visit the police station in the evening.
What is the Warkari sect controversy linked to this incident?
The controversy began after Sharad Pawar wrote an article alleging that 'infiltrators' had entered the Warkari sect. Lawande subsequently named 20 individuals, including spiritual figures, as 'regressive elements,' which triggered the confrontation at Alandi on 9 May 2025.
