Dispute over coconut prices turns violent in Asarwa, 4 booked for assaulting 3 people

A dispute over coconut prices between roadside vendors escalated into violence in the Asarwa area, leaving three persons, including a student and a minor, injured. The Shahibaug police have registered a case against four accused in connection with the incident.

Seemaben Bharatbhai Patni (20), a student residing in Asarwa, alleged that the incident took place late in the evening during the ongoing Chaitra Navratri festivities, when a large number of devotees had gathered near the Jogni Mata temple.

According to police, Seemaben and her mother Pushpaben run a roadside stall selling vegetables, while their relatives, including Harshitaben Patni, operate nearby stalls selling coconuts. On the night of the incident, an argument broke out between Harshitaben and a neighbouring vendor, identified as Chichu Mangabhai Patni, over the pricing of coconuts.

Police said the verbal altercation soon turned violent after Chichu, along with his nephew Ashish Nareshbhai Patni and relatives Pratham and Harshil, allegedly began abusing the women. When the victims objected, the accused reportedly attacked them using a sharp object and stones.

Seemaben alleged that Chichu struck her on the cheek with a sharp implement, causing bleeding injuries. Ashish is accused of hitting Harshitaben’s daughter, Anjali (18), on the forehead with a stone, while Pratham allegedly assaulted a 14-year-old boy by striking him on the head. Harshil is also accused of pelting stones and injuring Pushpaben on the cheek.

Following the assault, the accused allegedly vandalised a handcart belonging to the victims and fled the scene as bystanders gathered.

The injured were rushed to the Civil Hospital in an ambulance, where Seemaben and Anjali required stitches, while the minor also received treatment. After being discharged, the complainant approached the Shahibaug Police Station and lodged a formal complaint.

Police have registered an offence against the four accused for assault, causing hurt and damage to property.