For nearly 35 years, Sangeeta Bijlani has called her farmhouse near Pavana Dam in Pune her peaceful retreat. But a break-in in July has left the actor shaken. And for the first time, she says she doesn’t feel safe in her own home.
Bijlani recently met Pune Rural Superintendent of Police Sandip Singh Gill to check on the progress of the investigation into the theft. The incident, she said, has left her disturbed and anxious about her safety.
“I have been staying there for the last 20 years. Pavana has been a home to me. It has been three and a half months since the horrific incident, but there is still no breakthrough,” Bijlani told the media.
The crime, according to police reports, involved vandals breaking into the farmhouse, damaging household items such as refrigerators, TV sets, and furniture, and leaving obscene graffiti on the walls. The culprits also stole Rs 50,000 in cash and a television valued at Rs 7,000. Bijlani described the entire experience as “deeply disturbing”.
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The actor said she felt lucky that she wasn’t at the property when the crime took place. “There was a theft and housebreaking. It was scary. Obscene things were written on the walls. It shook me deeply,” she recalled.
Beyond her personal fear, Bijlani is concerned about the safety of the broader community around Pavana. “There are several residents in Pavana, including senior citizens and families. Safety is important. Lately, because of these incidents, the residents of the Pavana area are feeling unsafe,” she said.
The incident has prompted Bijlani to take steps she never thought she would. For the first time in her life, she has applied for a firearm licence. “In the wake of this incident, I have sought a firearm licence from the Pune rural police. As a woman, if I go alone to the house, I feel some protection is necessary. I never felt the need to have a firearm licence, but now I feel insecure,” she admitted.
The actor emphasized that her decision is about safety, not fear. “I am in need of a firearm, and this is the first time I am feeling unsafe and a little afraid. It’s not just for me, but also for the well-being of the people living nearby,” she said.