Bigg Boss Marathi fame Divya Shinde and several others were booked by Pune Police for allegedly assaulting a 65-year-old retired government doctor and demanding ₹5 lakh, according to a report by The Indian Express.
The case was registered on the basis of a retired medical officer, Dr Vidyadhar Gaikwad, at Kalepadal police station in Pune. The charges included extortion, causing hurt, criminal intimidation and attempt to murder.
Gaikwad is associated with the Karunadeep Foundation, which organised the Kala Avishkar Mahotsav at Balgandharva Auditorium in Pune from September 1 to 3.
Gaikwad's brother Mahendra alleged Shinde attended the event despite allegedly not being invited and later claimed that her presence had helped promote the programme. The complainant alleged she subsequently demanded ₹5 lakh from him.
He said that around ₹50,000 was transferred to Shinde, but the demand for the remaining amount continued.
Mahendra alleged Shinde visited Gaikwad's residence in Pune's Mohammadwadi area on September 17 and demanded the money. At around 8.30 pm on September 24, Shinde and several others allegedly arrived at Gaikwad's residence at Nyati Highlands and demanded ₹5 lakh.
Gaikwad was then assaulted with a wooden stick, belt and metal utensil. The accused also allegedly vandalised items inside the house and threatened to kill him if he did not pay the money. His son was also allegedly threatened.
{{/usCountry}}Gaikwad was then assaulted with a wooden stick, belt and metal utensil. The accused also allegedly vandalised items inside the house and threatened to kill him if he did not pay the money. His son was also allegedly threatened.
{{/usCountry}}Police said they have obtained CCTV footage from the residential complex as part of their investigation.
Who is Divya Shinde?
Divya Shinde is a social media influencer known by the name “Sarkar” and gained wider recognition after appearing on Bigg Boss Marathi 6 earlier this year.
Shinde was removed from the reality show in February following a controversy over statements that were reported as threats against fellow contestants.
Before entering the reality show, Shinde was known for her social media presence and participation in student and social campaigns. She was also seen participating in protests organised by the satirical student-led Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which has campaigned on issues related to education and student rights. Her appearance on Bigg Boss Marathi 6 brought her wider public attention.
Police said they are examining the allegations and that CCTV footage from the residential complex will also be reviewed.