Pune: A large-scale protest took place on Katraj-Kondhwa Road, organized by members of the Sakal OBC and Dhangar communities, demanding swift action against those involved in a defamatory campaign targeting OBC leader Laxman Hake.
The protest was held to condemn the deliberate actions of certain officials from the Maratha Kranti Morcha, who allegedly conspired to malign Hake’s reputation.
The protesters alleged that these individuals intentionally kept Hake under surveillance and surrounded him, falsely accusing him of consuming alcohol.
They then spread fabricated videos across Maharashtra, intending to defame him. However, medical tests conducted at the hospital confirmed that Hake had not consumed any alcohol, refuting the baseless accusations.
Despite the evidence clearing Hake’s name, concerns about his safety have intensified. Protesters demanded that Hake's police protection be immediately increased, citing threats to his life.
They also called for criminal charges under section 307 (attempt to murder) to be filed against those responsible for orchestrating this defamation campaign.
Ghanshyam Hake, a prominent leader of the Dhangar community, delivered a stern warning, stating that if the state government fails to address the issue, the Dhangar community will escalate the protest into a widespread agitation.
He emphasized that any resulting unrest will be the responsibility of the state government.
A formal memorandum outlining these demands was submitted to Senior Police Inspector Vinay Patankar and Police Inspector Mansingh Patil at the Kondhwa Police Station.
The protest saw a significant turnout of OBC community members, reflecting widespread support for Hake and the call for justice.