Woman Attempts Self-Immolation Outside Assembly Over Pune SRA Dispute
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A woman attempted self-immolation near the Maharashtra Assembly during the winter session, alleging political protection for a Pune builder in an SRA dispute.
Nagpur, December 09, 2025: A disturbing incident took place outside the Maharashtra Vidhan Bhavan during the winter session after a woman attempted to set herself on fire over an ongoing SRA dispute in Pune. She alleged that a builder involved in the case enjoys political protection, leaving her without legal relief despite repeated complaints.
Eyewitnesses say the woman arrived near the main entrance carrying written statements accusing a builder of fraud in a Slum Rehabilitation Authority project. She shouted slogans seeking justice and claiming that the administration had ignored her grievances. Security personnel intervened quickly and managed to prevent a major tragedy, though she reportedly sustained minor burn injuries before the flames were controlled.
The protest is linked to a long-running redevelopment issue in which several residents have accused a Pune-based builder of collecting money and failing to provide promised rehabilitation housing. The woman said she had approached multiple government offices and police authorities but was repeatedly turned away, allegedly because the builder enjoys political influence.
The dramatic attempt immediately drew attention inside the legislature. Opposition members criticised the government for allowing such desperation to reach the doors of the assembly. They demanded urgent action, including an inquiry into the allegations and a review of pending SRA complaints in Pune. Some MLAs called the incident proof of the breakdown of accountability in the rehabilitation system.
Government representatives expressed concern over the event and asked security agencies to review protocols outside the assembly. They urged the public not to resort to extreme measures and assured that the administration would examine the issue. Officials said preliminary information has been collected, and further steps will follow once the woman recovers fully.
Housing rights activists said the episode reflects a deeper crisis in SRA projects, where delays, legal disputes and lack of transparency often push vulnerable citizens into years of uncertainty. They pointed out that several redevelopment plans have faced allegations of irregularities and unfinished commitments, especially in major urban centres like Pune and Mumbai.
The attempted self-immolation has once again highlighted the need for clearer procedures, stricter accountability and faster grievance redressal. Advocates argue that cases involving alleged fraud should be handled by independent agencies to avoid political interference. They also call for regular audits of ongoing SRA projects, including financial tracking and physical verification of constructed units.
For now, authorities are focused on the woman’s medical treatment and will record her statement once doctors permit. As political tension rises around the assembly, citizens and activists are demanding visible action rather than general assurances. The coming days will show whether the incident leads to policy attention or remains another flashpoint without long-term reform.
