Pune: A shocking incident unfolded in Chikhali where a youth was brutally assaulted with machetes, sticks, and punches by a group over the collection of Ganpati festival donations in their area.

The victim, identified as 21-year-old Mahesh Pradeep Gunewad, filed a complaint with the Chikhali police, leading to charges against Prajwal Rokade, Manav Rokade, Om Narwade, Yash Narwade, and four other accomplices, all residents of Rokade Vasti, Chikhali.

Mahesh, an autorickshaw driver, was collecting donations for the Ganpati festival along with his colleagues in the Rokade Vasti area when the accused arrived, brandishing machetes, sticks, hockey sticks, and iron rods.

The sight of the armed group caused local shopkeepers to shutter their shops in fear. The accused were reportedly angered by Mahesh's association with another rickshaw driver, Sonya Tapkir.

They questioned Mahesh's presence in their area, asking, "Why are you collecting donations here?" before attacking him with punches, kicks, and a stick.

The assault escalated when the group attempted to kill Mahesh by striking his head with a machete. They also robbed him of ₹14,000 in donation money and an additional ₹4,000, totaling ₹17,000. Police in Chikhali are currently investigating the incident.

In response to the incident, Police Commissioner Vinaykumar Choubey has advised Ganesh mandals to ensure they are registered according to the rules of the Charity Commissioner.

He warned that legal action will be taken against those who forcibly collect donations and urged that sound levels of loudspeakers during the Ganesh festival remain within permissible limits.