In a shocking incident, veteran Bollywood actor Sangeeta Bijlani discovered that her farmhouse, nestled in the scenic Tikona village near Pawna Dam in Pune district, was vandalised and several household items were stolen. The theft came to light during her visit after a long gap of four months.
Bijlani, known for her iconic roles in 90s cinema, had been away due to her father’s health issues. When she finally made her way to the farmhouse accompanied by two domestic helps, she was appalled by the state of destruction inside the property.
“The main door was broken, and the window grills were damaged. One TV was missing and another was found smashed,” Bijlani wrote in her complaint submitted to Pune Rural Superintendent of Police Sandip Singh Gill.
Vandalism, Theft, and Chaos
According to Bijlani’s detailed application, the upper floor of the farmhouse was completely ransacked. All the beds were broken, and several personal and household items including a refrigerator, furniture, and CCTV cameras were either stolen or severely damaged.
“I was shocked and heartbroken to see the property in such a condition. Every room looked like it had been forcefully entered and looted,” she expressed in her statement to the police.
The farmhouse, situated in the tranquil surroundings of Maval Taluka, has long served as a peaceful retreat for the actress. However, the recent events have left her alarmed about security and safety in the region.
Police Investigation Underway
Senior Inspector Dinesh Tayde from Lonavala Police Station confirmed that a police team has been dispatched to assess the extent of the damage and theft.
“We are currently examining the site. Once the damage is fully assessed, we will formally register an FIR,” Tayde informed media representatives.
As of now, no suspects have been identified, and police have not ruled out the possibility of local miscreants or opportunistic burglars exploiting the long absence of the owner.
Concerns Over Rising Property Crimes in Rural Areas
This incident has once again spotlighted the security risks associated with isolated properties and farmhouses, especially those left unoccupied for extended periods. Rural and semi-urban regions near popular weekend destinations like Pawna Dam have seen a steady rise in break-ins and thefts in recent years.
Bijlani’s farmhouse is one of many luxury properties in the area owned by high-profile individuals from Mumbai and Bollywood. The incident has sparked concerns about the effectiveness of local policing and the need for regular patrolling in such zones.
Appeal for Swift Action
Sangeeta Bijlani has urged the authorities for a thorough investigation and swift justice. She has also requested stronger surveillance mechanisms in the Tikona area to prevent such incidents from recurring.
“This is not just about stolen goods. It’s about feeling safe in a place you consider home,” she said.
The police have assured that necessary steps will be taken to trace the culprits and improve vigilance in the region.
The vandalism of Sangeeta Bijlani’s farmhouse is a grim reminder that even serene holiday homes are not immune to crime. As investigations proceed, the incident highlights the need for enhanced security measures, especially in remote or less monitored regions around tourist zones like Pawna Dam.