Maharashtra MLA booked for beating police constable

Bhandara (Maha), Aug 19: BJP MLA Ramchandra Punaji Avasare allegedly beat up a police constable here, following which an offence has been registered against the legislator and his driver, police said today.

Avasare had gone to Tumsar taluka in the district on Tuesday to attend an event. While the MLA was addressing a gathering, his driver Tularam Selokar began taking a video of his speech, which obstructed the traffic and he was told by police to make the recording from another side.

But, instead of paying heed to the request, the driver allegedly started abusing them, Tumsar Police Station Officer Rajendra Shetye said. The cops then took him to Tumsar police station.

In the meantime, Avasare came and sat in his car.He was then informed that his driver was taken to police station for alleged violation of law.

The MLA then went to the police station and, in a fit of anger, allegedly beat up and abused constable Raju Sathavane, who sustained ear injury in the incident, Shetye said. Later, Avasare along with his driver left the place.

The constable was sent to doctor for a check up, and the medical report is awaited, police said. Offences have been registered against the MLA and his driver under sections 353 (assault or criminal force to deter public servant from discharge of his duty) and 504 of IPC and section 34 Bombay Police Act. No arrest has been made so far in this connection, police added.

Recently, an FIR was filed against NCP MLA Suresh Lad for allegedly slapping a Deputy Collector in Maharashtra's Raigad district.

PTI