Nine individuals have been booked after tourists, including an eight-year-old girl, were allegedly assaulted over their clothing at Pune’s Sinhagad Fort.
Pune’s Sinhagad Fort witnessed an alleged case of moral policing after a group of tourists, including an eight-year-old girl, were confronted and assaulted over their clothes on August 16.
Haveli Police have registered a criminal case against nine individuals in connection with the incident. According to Pune Police Superintendent Sandeep Singh Gill, the dispute began when a young man and another group of people stopped a family and questioned why their eight-year-old daughter was wearing shorts.
“An argument ensued, and the person was assaulted,” the police officer said.
The alleged attackers claimed to be members of a group called the ‘Fort Conservation Society’.
According to officials, the incident took place when Sinhagad Fort was witnessing a heavy weekend crowd. The alleged members of the group confronted tourists, including the minor, over what they considered “inappropriate” clothing.
The confrontation allegedly escalated into physical violence, with tourists being beaten and intimidated. Women, children and elderly people were also allegedly subjected to mistreatment and physical assault.
Eyewitnesses said the incident continued for nearly two hours, leaving tourists frightened as they attempted to protect themselves.
Following complaints, Haveli Police registered a criminal case against nine named individuals. Further investigation is underway.
The incident has also prompted authorities to take steps aimed at managing crowds at the fort.
Sinhagad Fort is set to become the first fort in Maharashtra to introduce app-based pre-registration for visitors as part of measures to manage tourist numbers and restrict vehicle entry.
Pune and its surrounding areas are home to several forts built during the Maratha period, including those associated with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. These historic sites remain popular tourist destinations.
In recent years, some self-styled fort conservation groups have emerged in Pune, claiming to work towards preserving the structures and keeping them clean. However, locals and tourists have also alleged that some such groups attempt to impose their own rules regarding clothing and behaviour at the forts.
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