Pharmacist hit by bullet during road-rage clash between two groups in Kalyan; 6 arrested, 2 minors detained

Kalyan: A pharmacist was seriously injured after being struck by a bullet during a violent clash between two rival groups in Kalyan East’s Vitthalwadi area on Wednesday night.

The incident, which allegedly stemmed from a road-rage dispute between members of the two groups, triggered panic among local residents and prompted immediate police response. Assistant commissioner of police Ashok Honmane said six persons have been arrested so far, while two minors have been sent to a remand home. “The weapon used in the firing has been seized, and efforts are underway to trace other suspects involved in the incident,” he added.

According to Kolsewadi police, the incident occurred around 11pm near Tulsa Park Building in Vitthalwadi. Investigators said members of the two groups led by Prem Ajay Singh alias Gunda and Sudarshan Sanjeev Nikale alias Bundi got into an altercation after a two-wheeler allegedly brushed against Singh’s car. What began as an argument soon escalated into a violent confrontation involving several members from both groups.

Police said that during the clash, Dnyaneshwar Rathod alias Gyanu, associated with Singh’s group, allegedly opened fire using a country-made pistol. At the same time, Rahul Verma, a local pharmacist who had stepped out after noticing the commotion, attempted to intervene and pacify the two groups. A bullet struck Verma below the waist, leaving him seriously injured. He was rushed to a nearby hospital and was later shifted to a private hospital in Dombivli, where he is currently undergoing treatment. Doctors said his condition is out of danger.

Rathod, the alleged shooter, is also undergoing treatment after sustaining injuries during the clash.

Following the incident, members of both groups lodged cross-complaints against each other. Based on a complaint filed by Nikale’s side, Kolsewadi police registered a case against Singh, Rathod, Omkar Jagdale and others under the relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including attempt to murder, assault and provisions of the Arms Act. Singh and Jagdale have been arrested, while two juveniles have been taken into custody and sent to a remand home.

In the counter-complaint, police booked Nikale, Sanjay Sharma, Kartik Pawar, and Pawan Chavan, along with others. Nikale, Sharma, Pawar and Chavan have been arrested.

Senior police officers, including DCP Atul Zende and ACP Honmane, visited the spot and reviewed the investigation. Additional police personnel have been deployed in the area to prevent any further escalation.

Kolsewadi police are continuing their investigation into the case.