Dancer critically injured in machete attack, manhunt launched for suspect

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: A 26-year-old dancer was critically injured in Jamkhed city during the early hours of Friday after a youth, allegedly upset over her ending their relationship and blocking his phone number, attacked her with a machete.The assault, which took place in the Tapneshwar area, sparked panic among local residents. The victim, identified as Gayatri Tushar Sawant, is a professional dancer originally from Wagholi in Pune district. She is currently undergoing treatment at a hospital, where her condition remains serious.Acting on Sawant's complaint, the Jamkhed police have registered a case of attempted murder against the accused, Rahul Ashok Kachare, a resident of Beed district. Kachare, who is associated with a traditional dance centre, is currently at large.According to the police, Sawant and Kachare had known each other for nearly five years, but their relationship ended in 2024. Despite the breakup, Kachare allegedly continued to harass Sawant, infuriated by the separation and her decision to block his number. The victim had previously approached the police to file a complaint regarding his persistent harassment.The escalation began on Thursday night, Feb 5. At approximately 10pm, Kachare allegedly called Sawant and threatened to kill her if she refused to speak with him. Sawant immediately disconnected the call.Around 2 am on Friday, while Sawant was in her room with her friend, Manisha Jawale, the accused — who had been lurking near the building — forced his way inside. Armed with a machete, he allegedly confronted Sawant about blocking his number before launching a violent assault, striking her on the head, hands, and fingers.Hearing Sawant's screams, Jawale rushed from the balcony and attempted to intervene, pleading with the attacker to stop. However, the assailant allegedly abused Sawant, threatened to "finish her off", and fled the scene."We have launched an all-out manhunt to trace the accused," said Jamkhed police inspector Dashrath Choudhary. "Multiple teams have been formed, and raids are currently being conducted at his possible hideouts."