The residents of Pune's NIBM Annexe were jolted awake by a violent street brawl near Golden Bakery, opposite Ganga Florentina and Kingston Court. Eyewitnesses reported loud shouting, abusive language and physical assault between a group of young men allegedly under the influence of alcohol. The area, known for its otherwise peaceful residential character, was gripped by fear and frustration as no police arrived at the scene for over an hour.
Locals are furious over the failure of the Kondhwa Police and the beat marshals, who they claim have turned a blind eye to frequent incidents of hooliganism and street racing in the area, especially on weekends. “We have been demanding night patrolling and CCTV coverage for months. Every time we raise the issue, the PMC says there’s no budget, and the police give vague assurances. Are they waiting for someone to get killed?” said an angry resident of Kingston Court.
The bakery stretch has become a post-midnight hangout zone for unruly elements, with blaring music from parked cars, rash driving and open alcohol consumption becoming common. Despite several complaints to the local ward office and the Kondhwa Police Station, no permanent action has been taken.
Citizens’ forums from Ganga Florentina, Raheja Vistas, Ganga Kingston and neighbouring societies have now united to demand immediate arrest of the miscreants, round-the-clock police patrolling and functioning CCTV cameras in the area. They also demand accountability from the PMC for failing to ensure basic urban safety infrastructure.
The repeated incidents have raised serious concerns about safety in NIBM Annexe. Residents are calling out the PMC and the police for their apathy and are warning of civic protests if tangible steps aren’t taken.
A PMC official on the condition of anonymity said, "The incident was reported on Sunday, and the request to install the CCTV cameras is underway. The civic body is actively identifying the spots and installing them. However, PMC is not responsible for installing the CCTVs on the road; that is the responsibility of the police."
