By Sagaya Fernando | August 19, 2025
Satara, Maharashtra, INDIA: A shocking incident was reported from Satara city where a woman traffic police officer was dragged for nearly 120 metres by an autorickshaw driver, allegedly under the influence of alcohol, after he refused to stop for a routine traffic check.
The victim, identified as Policewoman Bhagyashree Jadhav, was deployed on duty at a busy crossing in the city when she signalled the autorickshaw to halt. Instead of stopping, the driver, Devraj Kale, attempted to flee the spot. In the process, he accelerated the vehicle, dragging Jadhav along the moving autorickshaw as she clung on in an effort to stop him.
CCTV footage of the incident shows the officer being pulled along the road while struggling to maintain her grip, even as bystanders screamed for the driver to stop. The reckless act continued for nearly 120 metres through the market area until locals managed to intercept the autorickshaw.
Eyewitnesses said that several people ran after the vehicle, eventually blocking its path and overpowering the driver. The angry crowd also thrashed Kale before handing him over to the police.
Jadhav, who sustained injuries during the ordeal, was rushed to a nearby private hospital for treatment. Doctors have confirmed that her condition is stable.
Police later confirmed that the driver was intoxicated at the time of the incident. He has been arrested and booked under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Motor Vehicles Act, including charges of assault on a public servant, endangering life, and driving under the influence.
Authorities have lauded the courage of the woman constable and the quick action of locals, which prevented the situation from turning more serious.
A senior police officer from Satara said, “This is a grave crime. Not only did the accused endanger the life of a police personnel on duty, but he also posed a serious threat to public safety. Strict legal action will follow.”
The incident has sparked outrage and renewed calls for stricter enforcement against drunk driving in the state.
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