Public demands strict action against criminals amid growing concerns over law and order
Shrirampur | July 15 | Salim Khan Pathan
(Shrirampur Crime Protest) Following the brutal murder of businessman Akash Dubayya, residents of Shrirampur, after observing a complete shutdown for four consecutive days, organized an unprecedented public protest march against organized crime on Wednesday. The march witnessed participation from leaders across political parties, traders, industrialists, social organizations, and thousands of citizens, making it one of the largest public demonstrations in the city’s history. Wearing saffron caps, participants displayed unity against criminal activities and demanded strict action against those responsible.
(Shrirampur Crime Protest) The protest began at 11:00 a.m. after a Maha Aarti at the Hanuman Temple. The march passed through Mahatma Gandhi Chowk, Main Road, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Road, before culminating in a public meeting at Shivteerth.
Speakers at the gathering included Ashok Thore, Sunil Mutha, former MLAs Bhausaheb Kamble and Lahu Kanade, former Sabha Chairman Deepak Patare, Santosh Mete, Ramadevi Dhivar, corporator Vaishali Chavan, Sachin Gujar, Prakash Chitte, and MLA Hemant Ogle.
The speakers expressed serious concern over the increasing incidents of organized crime, hooliganism, and the deteriorating law and order situation in the city. Several incidents were cited to highlight the growing sense of fear among residents.
Former MLA Lahu Kanade criticized the law and order situation and questioned the functioning of certain police officers. He also made serious allegations and demanded an impartial inquiry into the matter.
Prakash Chitte cited several examples of how criminal activities have affected ordinary citizens. During the meeting, an audio clip, which was claimed to contain threats made to a village sarpanch, was also played before the gathering.
Ramadevi Dhivar expressed strong anger over the murder of Akash Dubayya and called for strict action against those involved in drug abuse and narcotics supply networks affecting the youth.
Concluding the meeting, MLA Hemant Ogle said the four-day shutdown had created a new chapter in Shrirampur’s public movement. He stated that the local Bar Association had decided not to represent the accused and that traders’ associations had actively supported the protest. He warned that if the police failed to take prompt and strict action against the accused, the agitation would be intensified.
The march saw large participation from citizens, traders, industrialists, workers, youth, and members of various social organizations from both urban and rural areas. Supporters of Guardian Minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil were also seen participating.
After the protest concluded at around 2:00 p.m., the city-wide shutdown was withdrawn, and traders were requested to reopen their establishments.
Under the supervision of Deputy Superintendent of Police Jaydatt Bhavar and Police Inspector Vishal Khaire, heavy police security was deployed across the city. Following the protest, police launched combing operations late into the night and conducted raids at several locations. According to available information, weapons and other materials were seized during the operation.
During the meeting, MLA Hemant Ogle made allegations against certain police personnel and demanded action against them. These allegations were made during the public gathering and have not yet been verified through any official investigation or judicial finding.
