Mumbai, Nov 4 (NationPress) The Shiv Sena (UBT) has criticized the BJP-led Mahayuti government, particularly targeting the Home Department under Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, for the alarming rise in criminal activities and the resurgence of gang wars in Pune. Once celebrated as an IT hub, Pune is now labeled a ‘murder hub’.

The editorial from the Thackeray faction, published in their party's mouthpiece 'Saamana', contended that while the criminals have become more aggressive, the effectiveness of the police and the Home Department has notably diminished.

It further stated that the rise of the “koyata” gang has turned Pune, previously known for peace and civility, into a city gripped by fear. Punekars now live in constant anxiety, with incidents of violence taking place even in broad daylight. The recent brutal murder of Ganesh Kale is a chilling reminder of this growing trend.

“In numerous suburban areas of Pune, gang members wielding koyata are spreading fear. Vehicles parked near residential societies are being torched, and there’s always a looming threat of reckless drivers causing accidents. Furthermore, reports of rising violence against women are becoming increasingly common, with incidents like gang-rape at Swargate ST station and Dive Ghat igniting public outrage,” the editorial lamented.

“As Pune grapples with the chaos created by Koyata gangs and escalating gang wars, the alarming discovery of terrorists within the city raises further concerns. How has Pune, once a hub for social movements, descended into such a state of terror?” questioned the Thackeray faction.

Uddhav Thackeray's Shiv Sena also took aim at Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, Pune's guardian minister, sarcastically suggesting that his approach to combatting crime, referred to as ‘tyre therapy’, has failed, particularly with CM Devendra Fadnavis also holding the Home Ministry.

“Why have criminal activities reached such alarming levels? Ajit Pawar often advises the police to use ‘tyres’ to outsmart criminals, but it seems they haven't found the right ‘tyre’ yet. Is it because of the influence of CM Fadnavis that his strategies are ineffective?” they remarked.

According to the editorial, Punekars are witnessing public figures, politicians, and criminals mingling freely. “What objective do Pune's leaders hope to achieve by honoring criminals?” it questioned.

“The close ties between Pune's political leaders and criminal elements are evident through various promotional displays throughout the city. How can the police effectively monitor criminal activities when the political elite themselves are entangled with them? To restore order in Pune, superficial measures like blockades will not suffice; the police must take decisive action against political interference and empower officers with deep knowledge of the criminal landscape. Due to the current leniency within the police force, criminals have become increasingly audacious, which is alarming for law and order,” the editorial concluded.