Activist Narendra Dabholkar, who was in the forefront of a campaign to persuade Maharashtra government to pass an anti-superstition and black magic bill, was shot dead here this morning by unknown assailants
Dabholkar was found dead in a pool of blood at Omkareshwar bridge of the city. Dabholkar, who was also editor of "Sadhana" magazine devoted to propagation of progressive thought, succumbed to bullet injuries in the Sassoon Hospital here.u00a0
Narendra Dabholkar
ADVERTISEMENT
Dabholkar’s close associate claimed that for past few days, the activist was getting threat calls, warning him of dire consequences if he continued his efforts towards Anti-Superstition bill. On the condition of anonymity he told MiD DAY that the assassin probably knew that Dhabholkar spent every Tuesday and Wednesday in Pune and that morning stroll was part of his daily regime. The assault on him was pre-planned, he added.
Police inspect the crime spot. Pic/ Krunal Gosavi
Two eyewitnesses to this incident were able to note down the registration number of the bike that was used in the assault.
Dabholkar’s body will be kept at Sadhana Prakashan’s office in Shanivar Peth. Dabholkar was editor of Sadhana magazine.His family members are on their way to Pune from Satara.
Actor Amol Palekar visits Sassoon hospital
Pune Police Commissioner Gulabrao Pol, who confirmed Dabholkar's death, told PTI that police were investigating the motive but no suspects have so far been identified.
Dabholkar spearheaded the "Andhashraddha Nirmulan Samiti" (Anti-Superstition movement) to change social mindset and inculcate scientific temper.
A staunch fighter for the cause of eradication of inhuman rituals and superstitions, Dabholkar was also in the forefront of the campaign to persuade Maharashtra government to pass an anti-superstition and black magic bill -- opposed by certain sections of Warkari sect -- in the State legislature.
With inputs from Pune MiDDAY team
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
