Pune: Police officer suspended for absence during illegal takeover of Zep bungalow; second suspension in the case

A police officer assigned to guard the Zep bungalow in Pune was suspended after being absent during a forceful takeover involving a JCB breaking the compound wall.

10 November 2025, Pune – A police officer assigned to safeguard the Zep bungalow, the residence linked to late Marathi novelist N. S. Inamdar, has been suspended for dereliction of duty after a group of individuals forcefully entered the property in his absence. The incident occurred when unauthorized persons arrived at the location with a JCB machine and demolished the compound wall and iron gate to take possession of the bungalow. According to officials, the officer responsible for security was expected to remain on-site due to the ongoing dispute surrounding the property, but he was not present when the break-in took place. This lapse allowed the intruders to gain entry without immediate resistance, raising serious questions about oversight and accountability.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Milind Mohite ordered the suspension of Police Sub-Inspector Vijay Namdev Shinde following an internal review. The investigation concluded that his absence from duty directly contributed to the situation escalating unchecked. This is the second suspension connected to the case, reflecting the seriousness with which the department is treating failures related to property protection and law enforcement responsibilities. Sources familiar with the dispute say tensions around the bungalow had been rising, making it essential for the assigned officers to remain vigilant. The sudden demolition of the boundary structures indicates the takeover attempt was planned and executed quickly, taking advantage of the lapse in security.

Residents in the area reported hearing loud noises as the JCB machine began tearing down the compound, prompting calls to the police control room. By the time responding units arrived, the intruders had gained control of the premises. The bungalow, known in literary circles due to its association with Inamdar, has been at the centre of a legal and ownership dispute. Officers investigating the matter are now focusing on how the group organised the operation, whether they had prior knowledge of the officer’s absence, and if any additional personnel were expected to be on duty at the time. Authorities say more disciplinary action may follow depending on the findings.

The incident has also drawn public attention to the broader issue of inadequate monitoring of heritage and disputed properties, especially when they require police supervision. Legal experts say that when protective deployment is ordered by authorities, failure to comply can severely compromise ongoing investigations and legal proceedings. For Pune Police, the episode is a reminder of the importance of strict adherence to duty assignments, especially in sensitive cases involving property rights and potential civil conflict. The department has stated that internal reviews are continuing and that steps will be taken to ensure greater accountability going forward.

For now, the suspension of the officer marks another development in a case that continues to evolve. Authorities are verifying statements, reviewing call logs and analysing timelines to determine if negligence alone enabled the takeover or if other factors were involved. The bungalow remains under active police watch as the inquiry moves ahead.

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