Special Correspondent
Pune:
In a strong crackdown following a disturbing incident of public vandalism, Pune Police have filed criminal charges not only against the underage culprits but also against their parents and bar staff who illegally served them alcohol. The incident occurred in the Sinhagad Road area, where intoxicated minors created chaos by vandalizing nearly 20 to 22 vehicles, shouting “We are the dons of this area,” and attempting to instill fear among residents.
The shocking act, which took place two days ago, was caught on CCTV and mobile cameras. The video clips, which have since gone viral on social media, prompted swift police action. Investigations revealed that the minors had consumed alcohol at a local bar prior to the incident. Acting on this evidence, the Sinhagad Road Police have sealed the bar, identified as an “intoxication hotspot” serving liquor to minors in violation of the law.
Police have registered an FIR under relevant sections of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, particularly Section 77, which pertains to giving intoxicating substances to children. The case names multiple individuals including Dharma Sarode (75), father of one of the minor boys. The mother of another minor. Anil Vinayak Suryawanshi, Bar Manager. Vinod Dattatray Kamble, Bar Counter Staff. Kalidas Nayakwadi, who allegedly purchased and handed over alcohol to the minors.
All of them have been booked for their role in facilitating access to alcohol for underage individuals and contributing to the public nuisance that followed.
Police sources said that more arrests could follow as investigation progresses. Authorities are also examining whether the establishment violated any additional provisions under the Bombay Prohibition Act, as well as the Motor Vehicles Act in cases where vehicle owners have pressed for damages.
A senior officer from Pune Police remarked, “This is a clear case of parental negligence and commercial irresponsibility. We are treating it as a serious public order issue. Bars and restaurants serving liquor to minors will face strictest legal consequences, and parents will also be held accountable.”
The action sends a strong message across Pune that enabling underage drinking will not be tolerated. Pune Police have also launched a city-wide audit of bars and pubs, especially those located near residential zones and educational institutions.
Local residents and vehicle owners have appreciated the police’s swift and strict action, with many calling for regular checks and license cancellations of bars found violating norms. Some residents have even demanded community policing initiatives to monitor public behavior in nightlife zones.
