For over a week, actor Anuj Sachdeva has been unable to sleep soundly, haunted by a violent attack he and his dog endured in his own residential society over a parking issue. The incident, which occurred nearly 12 days ago, has left him not only physically shaken but also deeply disillusioned with the system he once trusted.
The Violent Altercation and Alleged Police Lapses
Anuj Sachdeva claims he was assaulted and beaten with a rod by a man from Haryana within his residential complex. The attacker also allegedly tried to hit the actor's dog, accusing the animal of biting him. Despite presenting video footage and evidence, the actor asserts that no concrete action has been taken by the Mumbai Police. His distress is compounded by the process of filing the First Information Report (FIR).
"When I went to register an FIR at the police station, my complaint was recorded in Marathi, which I do not understand," Sachdeva revealed. He alleges that his words were twisted and incorrect legal sections were applied, making the case favourable to the alleged culprit. This procedural hurdle has left him aghast and feeling helpless in his pursuit of justice.
A Changed Perception of Mumbai's Safety
Originally from Delhi but a long-time Mumbai resident, Sachdeva always considered the city one of the safest in India. "I have been living in Mumbai for many years and have always had great respect for the city and the Mumbai Police. I felt proud to live here," he stated. However, this incident has drastically altered his perspective.
He expressed concern over the lack of support from his society members and the implications for the common citizen. "If someone like me has to face so much difficulty in getting an FIR registered, I can only imagine what a layman goes through," he lamented. He also commented on the attacker's motive against his dog, linking it to a broader, troubling trend. "My dog charged at him only after this man hit me. I’m shocked that people have started taking revenge on these poor creatures after the recent Supreme Court ruling regarding dogs."
Seeking Justice and a System's Failure
Despite repeated visits to the police station, Sachdeva claims the alleged assailant is still roaming freely. "No action has been taken against the man," he said, highlighting his disappointment. He emphasized his choice to follow the legal route despite provocation. "I could have retaliated in the same manner, but I am a responsible citizen. Unfortunately, the system has disappointed me to a great extent."
The actor's family remains worried about his and his pet's safety as he continues his struggle for official redressal, a struggle that has now stretched to nearly two weeks without resolution.
