Nagpur: In the past three years, 62 police personnel in Nagpur have been attacked while on duty, highlighting growing threats to law enforcement in the city. Across Maharashtra, 2,410 such incidentshave been recorded, with Mumbai (448), Thane (161), and Pimpri-Chinchwad (108) among the worst-affected areas. The increasing number of attacks raises serious concerns about police safety and law enforcement challenges.
Chandrapur Attack Sparks Fresh Concerns:
A recent violent attack in Chandrapur has reignited the debate over police security. On March 7, two police personnel were brutally assaulted with sharp weapons, resulting in the death of Dilip Chavanand severe injuries to Sandeep alias Sameer Chafale. The attack underscores the dangers officers face while performing their duties.
Nagpur Among Several Cities Witnessing a Rise in Police Attacks:
Nagpur is not alone in facing this crisis. Over the past three years:
• Mumbai recorded the highest number of police attacks (448)
• Thane (161), Pimpri-Chinchwad (108), Pune (99), and Navi Mumbai (69)also reported significant cases
• Nagpur saw 62 cases, raising concerns about police vulnerability
• Other affected cities include Vasai-Virar (64), Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (59), Nashik (27), Solapur (27), and Amravati (30)
Police Attacks in Rural Maharashtra Also on the Rise:
The issue extends beyond urban areas. In the past three years:
• Kolhapur Division(including five districts) recorded 312 police assault cases, with 91 incidents in Pune districtalone.
• Nashik Divisionreported 202 incidents, with Ahilyanagar (95 cases) leading the list.
• Amravati Division (155 cases)saw the highest number of incidents in Buldhana (42 cases).
• Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Division (152 cases)had the most reports from Jalna district (50 cases).
Political, Criminal Nexus Behind Rising Attacks:
Law enforcement experts believe that criminal elements, politically backed individuals, and those involved in illegal activities are behind these attacks. These groups obstruct police operations, making officers vulnerable to violence. Despite warnings from the Director General of Police (DGP)about strict action, attacks continue, as seen in Chandrapur.
Slight Decline in Cases but No Relief for Police:
While reported attacks have decreased—from 896 cases in 2022 to 801 in 2023, and 713 in 2024—the situation remains worrisome. The 62 cases in Nagpur indicate that police safety is still a major concern.
Urgent Need for Stronger Protection Measures:
With police personnel increasingly becoming targets of violent attacks, law enforcement authorities and government officials are under pressure to:
Enforce stricter laws against those assaulting police personnel
Provide better protective gear and training for officers
Increase security measures in high-risk areas
As attacks on police continue across Maharashtra, the demand for stronger law enforcement and harsher penalties against offenders is growing. The safety of those who protect the public must remain a priority.
