A disturbing incident has come to light from Pune’s Chandannagar area, where the family of a Kargil War veteran has alleged harassment and intimidation by a mob that accused them of being illegal immigrants and demanded proof of their Indian citizenship.
The incident reportedly took place late Saturday night around 11:30 PM. According to the family, a mob of 70-80 individuals, allegedly including members of the Bajrang Dal and some men in plainclothes claiming to be police, barged into their home and those of nearby relatives. The group accused them of being Bangladeshi or Rohingya immigrants and demanded immediate proof of identity.
“We are proud Indians,” said Irshad Shaikh, the brother of veteran Hakimuddin Shaikh. “Our family has served this country for generations, and yet we were treated like criminals in our own home.”
Irshad recounted how the mob created panic despite the family showing valid identification. “They didn’t listen. Even when we showed our IDs, they called them fake. It was terrifying,” he said.
Hakimuddin’s nephew, Shamshad Shaikh, echoed the same. “They banged on our doors at 11:45 PM. When we opened them, 5–7 people entered, while dozens stood outside. They threatened to kill us if we didn’t immediately show Aadhaar cards. When we did, they said the documents were fake,” he alleged.
The family also claimed some individuals among the group wore plain clothes and presented themselves as police officers, but Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar refuted the allegation. “There was no police presence in the crowd. The family has not made any such allegation in their official complaint,” he said.
Police have since registered a case of unlawful assembly against the unidentified individuals involved in the mob incident.
“An offence has been registered for unlawful assembly and raising of slogans. Senior officers have visited the site and assured the family that their concerns will be addressed. If necessary, more serious charges will be applied. Strict action will be taken,” CP Kumar assured.
The matter is currently under investigation.