Pune: Rashtriya Chhava Sanghatna has claimed responsibility for confronting OBC leader Laxman Hake on Monday (September 30) night, accusing him of making defamatory remarks about former MP Sambhaji Chhatrapati and activist Manoj Jarange Patil.

The confrontation, which took place in Pune's Katraj-Kondhwa area, escalated after Sudhir Mate, district president of Rashtriya Chhava Sanghatna and other Maratha youth alleged that Hake was under the influence of alcohol.

According to Gangadhar Kalkute, the founder of Rashtriya Chhava Sanghatna, "Laxman Hake has a history of making controversial comments. Sudhir Mate, our district president, was right to confront him, and I fully support his actions."

The situation had become tense when Hake denied the accusations and was escorted to the Kondhwa police station by the Maratha youth, including Mate, who demanded that Hake undergo a medical examination to verify whether he had consumed alcohol.

Following the confrontation, Hake was taken to Sassoon Hospital for tests. Initial reports revealed no traces of alcohol, though blood samples were sent to a medical laboratory for confirmation.

This clash has ignited a fresh wave of tension between the Maratha community and OBC leaders. Sudhir Mate and other members of the Rashtriya Chhava Sanghatna maintain that Hake’s statements were inflammatory and warranted their response.

Meanwhile, Hake’s supporters argue that the confrontation was an attempt to malign his reputation ahead of political activities. The final results of the medical tests are expected in the coming days.