Nagpur: A violent gang clash erupted in Vyankatesh Nagar, Khamla, late Sunday night, leaving the locality gripped with tension. The incident stemmed from an old rivalry between two groups, prompting Rana Pratap Nagar police to register cases against both sides.

According to police, Manish alias Golu Totwani, a Khamla resident with multiple criminal cases against him, had an ongoing dispute with a rival from Vyankatesh Nagar. A few days earlier, the rival allegedly abused and threatened Totwani, triggering his anger.

On Sunday, around 11.30 pm, Totwani and his associates arrived in Vyankatesh Nagar in a car. Soon after, the rival group also reached the spot. Totwani’s gang, armed with swords and sticks, attacked their opponents, pelted stones at houses, and even molested a woman, police said.

In retaliation, the rival group damaged Totwani’s vehicles and assaulted him, sparking panic in the area. Senior officials, including Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone 1) S. Rushikesh Reddy, along with Rana Pratap Nagar police, rushed to the scene to bring the situation under control.

Police have booked Totwani and his accomplices under charges of assault, molestation, and the Arms Act.

Totwani’s Threats to Police Officials

Totwani, known for his links with a national political party, has allegedly threatened senior officers with dire consequences. Using his “contacts,” he is said to have issued repeated threats to police officials, raising concerns over political protection.

No Preventive Action Raises Questions

Despite several offences against him in the past—including gambling, illegal money lending, and late-night liquor sales—no preventive action has been taken against Totwani by Nagpur police. Citizens have now demanded that action under the Maharashtra Prevention of Dangerous Activities (MPDA) Act be invoked to curb his unlawful activities.