Bandra locals question Rane bros’ security

Following Nitesh Rane’s justification about his brother’s action of abusing a woman traffic warden from Bandra (West), citizens and activists from Bandra and Khar have demanded that the Rane brothers should give up their security cover to avoid such incidents.

Nitesh met the activists on Monday to pacify them and said the warden’s behaviour prompted Nilesh’s and his security guard to the altercation.

Citizens have termed Nitesh’s assurance of pulling up his guards and asking them to be courteous to people as “just another political assurance”.

“Many such incidents have happened and politicians have given big assurances. If at all they feel sorry, they should give up their security cover as there seems to be no threat to their lives,” said Daphne Warapen, an activist from Khar (W). “Giving up security would be better as the strength of police force may increase which will help ensure women’s safety in city.”

Anil Joseph, an activist from Bandra (W), demanded that police reforms be implemented to avoid political interference in the functioning of the administration. “Citizens who break the law are taken to task. Why was the traffic warden detained for doing her duty?” he asked.

A 2012 government report says that the Rane brothers don’t need any security cover. Nitesh refused to comment.