Pune: Need Legal Reforms To Tackle Juvenile Crime, Says Ajit Pawar As Koyta Attacks, Vehicle Vandalism Rise

Incidents of violence involving sharp weapons like koytas (machetes) and vehicle vandalism have recently come to light in Pune. Shockingly, many of the accused involved in such crimes are below 14 years of age. As they fall under the minor category, police face difficulties in taking strict action against them because of the existing law. The law needs reform, said Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar during the inauguration and bhoomi pujan ceremony of various projects under the Pune City Police Commissionerate on Friday.

Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar expressed serious concern over the issue. He stated, "We need to think seriously about this. I will discuss with Union Home Minister Amit Shah whether legal changes are possible to deal with such cases."

Pawar also said that with the festive season approaching, the police are working hard to maintain law and order in the city. Efforts are being made to maintain public trust and ensure that celebrations take place peacefully, he added.

Earlier in the day, Pawar reviewed several ongoing development projects in the Moshi area of Pimpri-Chinchwad.

He visited Pimpri-Chinchwad and met local authorities to discuss progress. His visit came after he announced on July 29 that the state government had approved the setting up of District and Additional Sessions Courts, along with a Senior Civil Court, in Pimpri-Chinchwad.

He also visited Chakan, where he inspected traffic congestion issues.

Sharing details on X, the Deputy Chief Minister wrote, "In response to the severe traffic congestion issue faced by residents and employees in Chakan city and the MIDC area of Pune district, an inspection was conducted today at various locations in Chakan. During this inspection, discussions were held with the District Collector, Police Commissioner, and relevant officials. The main reasons for the traffic congestion were identified, and clear instructions were given to the officials to implement immediate solutions."