Pune High Court: Petition Against Detention Under Dangerous Activities Act Dismissed

Aman Shaikh, a 23-year-old worker from Pune, tried to challenge his detention under the Maharashtra Prevention of Dangerous Activities Act. The court, however, decided against him, saying that his actions posed a threat to public safety.

Background of the Case

Aman Shaikh was detained on October 21, 2024, based on an order from the Police Chief of Pune. The order was based on two criminal cases and witness statements that described Aman as a dangerous person.

The Offences and Allegations

• Crime Details: Aman was involved in two criminal cases. The first case involved assault and damaging property. The second case involved having weapons.

• Witness Statements: Witnesses described incidents where Aman threatened them with weapons, demanded money, and scared people in the community.

"The Petitioner has caused a lot of fear and has become a constant danger to society."

Petitioner's Arguments

Aman's lawyer argued that:

1. Old Offences: The past offences mentioned were old and should not be used to justify the detention.
2. Public Safety vs. Law and Order: The incidents were minor and related to law and order, not public safety.

Court's Decision

The court, led by Judges Ranjitsinha Raja Bhonsale and A.S. Gadkari, found that:

• Reliance on Offences: The police relied on recent offences and statements, not just past ones.
• Public Threat: Aman's actions were indeed a threat to public safety, creating fear and insecurity in the community.

"The Petitioner habitually threatened the general public by using dangerous weapons and due to said conduct created an atmosphere of terror."

Summary of the Verdict

The court decided that Aman Shaikh's detention was necessary to prevent further threats to public safety. His petition was dismissed, and the court's order was finalized.