Dispute over begging spot leads to violent attack in front of Shani Temple

Pune: A heated argument between two people over a seat outside the Shani Temple in front of Shaniwar Wada escalated into a violent attack, leaving one person seriously injured and unconscious. The incident occurred on Wednesday morning (October 2) at around 11am

Faraskhana police have arrested Digambar Siddh Khandekar, a 61-year-old resident of Kasba Peth originally from Tisangi in Solapur, in connection with the attack.

The victim, believed to be between 50 and 55 years old, is still unconscious and is receiving intensive care at Sassoon Hospital.

According to police reports, the Shani Temple near the historic Shaniwar Wada is a regular meeting point for several people, including beggars. The argument started when Khandekar and the unidentified victim fought over a seat outside the temple.

The argument quickly escalated. Khandekar reportedly threatened the victim saying, “I will not spare you today, I will finish you off.”

In a fit of rage, Khandekar grabbed a stone placed outside the temple as an oil offering and hit the victim on the head and face.

The blow was so severe that the victim immediately lost consciousness. Passers-by alerted the police, who responded quickly and took the injured man to Sassoon Hospital for treatment.

The victim’s identity is currently unknown and police are working to find out his details. Authorities have arrested Khandekar for attempted murder and other related offenses. Assistant Police Inspector Sheikh of Faraskhana police station is leading the investigation.