Pune Police busted a rave party in the upscale Kharadi area of Pune, Maharashtra, seizing narcotics, liquor, and hookah setups during a midnight raid. Seven people, including Pranjal Khewalkar—son-in-law of former Maharashtra minister Eknath Khadse—were detained. The incident has sparked political controversy, with Khadse alleging foul play and demanding a fair probe.
Key Highlights
- Pune Police raid rave party in Kharadi based on a tip-off.
- Seven people detained, including ex-minister Eknath Khadse’s son-in-law.
- Drugs, liquor, and hookah setups seized from the apartment.
- Khadse alleges political vendetta, demands impartial investigation.
- Case registration and forensic testing of seized substances underway.
Police Raid in Kharadi Apartment
Acting on a tip-off, Pune Police’s Crime Branch raided a private studio apartment in Kharadi during the early hours of Sunday. The authorities revealed that the party was being hosted without the required permissions.
“We received credible information about a rave party being held at a private apartment in the Kharadi area. During the raid, we seized narcotic substances, liquor, and hookah setups,” a senior police officer said.
A total of seven individuals—five men and two women—were detained from the apartment. Among them is Pranjal Khewalkar, who is married to Rohini Khadse, the state president of the women’s wing of the opposition NCP (Sharad Pawar faction).
What the Police Found
The seized items include ganja, liquor, and hookah paraphernalia. Police confirmed that all detained individuals are in custody, and the legal process for registering a case is underway.
“This party was organized without necessary permissions. We are investigating the source of the narcotic substances and the people involved,” an official added.
Political Angle Emerges
Former minister Eknath Khadse reacted sharply to his son-in-law’s detention, alleging that the police action may have political motives.
“I suspect foul play in this incident. The authorities must conduct a fair and unbiased investigation,” Khadse demanded.
Shiv Sena (UBT) deputy leader Sushma Andhare added, “This raid is a message to those who speak against the government.”
Public Reaction and Ongoing Investigation
The incident has sparked heated discussions across political and public circles in Pune. Many are questioning whether the raid was a straightforward crime-busting operation or politically motivated due to Khadse’s association with the opposition.
Police officials have stated that a detailed probe is ongoing, and the seized narcotics will be sent for forensic analysis. Further legal action will follow once the case is formally registered.