Solapur: The Solapur police have arrested five more individuals, including the alleged masterminds, in connection with the brutal assault on comedian Praneet More. The prime suspects, identified as Tanvir Sheikh and Kaushal Shinde, were taken into custody after they were found hiding in Goa and Konkan.
Praneet More, known for his sharp wit and political satire, was attacked on Sunday while performing at a hotel in Solapur. The assault was reportedly triggered by his jokes about Veer Pahariya, an emerging Bollywood actor and the grandson of former Maharashtra Chief Minister Sushilkumar Shinde. According to police reports, a group of ten men confronted More at the venue, demanding an explanation for his remarks before physically assaulting him.
Following an FIR at the Sadar Bazar police station, authorities initially arrested five suspects. However, the remaining attackers, including the masterminds, had gone into hiding. According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (Circular) Vijay Kabade, Sheikh and Shinde orchestrated the attack by purchasing tickets to More’s show and mobilizing their accomplices. After returning to Solapur, they were apprehended along with five others.
A case has been registered against 10 to 12 individuals involved in the assault. More’s team issued a statement on social media condemning the attack, describing how he was repeatedly punched and kicked, leaving him injured. Following this, Solapur police summoned More to record his statement, but he has yet to appear.
The police are continuing their investigation to ensure all culprits are brought to justice. Meanwhile, the incident has sparked debates on freedom of expression and the safety of artists in India.
