MUMBAI: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has responded to the recent stabbing of actor Saif Ali Khan, emphasizing that Mumbai remains one of the safest megacities in the country. The incident, which occurred early on Thursday morning, has raised concerns about the city’s safety.
Incident Details
Around 2:30 AM on Thursday, Saif Ali Khan was attacked by an intruder inside his Bandra residence. The assailant, who had apparently gained access to the apartment earlier, stabbed the actor before fleeing via the staircase. Khan’s house help, who attempted to intervene, sustained minor injuries during the scuffle. The actor was promptly taken to Lilavati Hospital, where he underwent surgery for injuries to his thoracic spine and other areas. Medical professionals have reported that he is now out of danger.
Chief Minister’s Statement
In response to the incident, Chief Minister Fadnavis described the attack as “serious” but asserted that it would be “unfair to say that Mumbai is unsafe because of this incident.” He emphasized that such isolated events should not tarnish the city’s reputation. Fadnavis further stated, “Mumbai is the safest megacity in the country. The incident is serious but wrong to brand the city as unsafe.” He assured the public that the government is committed to enhancing safety measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Investigation and Public Response
The Mumbai Police have initiated a thorough investigation into the attack. Preliminary findings suggest that the intruder did not force entry into the apartment but may have entered earlier in the night. CCTV footage has been reviewed, and the police are considering the possibility of an insider’s involvement, given the lack of forced entry. Three individuals have been detained for questioning, and the role of the house help, who also sustained minor injuries, is under scrutiny.
The incident has sparked discussions about safety in Mumbai, with some opposition leaders and members of the film fraternity expressing concerns. However, Chief Minister Fadnavis has reiterated his confidence in the city’s safety, stating that such incidents are rare and should not overshadow Mumbai’s overall security record.
Conclusion
While the attack on Saif Ali Khan is a serious concern, it remains an isolated incident. The Maharashtra government, under Chief Minister Fadnavis, continues to prioritize the safety and security of its residents. Authorities are actively working to ensure that such incidents do not recur, reinforcing Mumbai’s status as a safe and vibrant megacity.
