Pune, 26th August 2023: A disturbing incident unfolded at the Spice Factory restaurant located on NIBM Road, Pune, on August 25th, as a disagreement over service charges on a bill escalated into a violent confrontation. The altercation involved derogatory remarks and physical assaults using beer bottles and glass jars by the restaurant staff.
The Kondhwa police station swiftly responded by registering a First Information Report (FIR) against the unidentified staff members of the Spice Factory. The charges brought against them include attempted murder (Section 307) and other relevant sections under the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
As per the details mentioned in the filed FIR, the incident unfolded around 3:45 PM on Friday. The dispute originated when Hujefa Mustafa Attarwala, a 38-year-old business professional from Mohammadwadi, along with a friend, reviewed their bill of Rs 2030 and noticed an additional service charge of Rs 176.50. Seeking clarification, Attarwala approached the billing counter, where he was advised to speak with the manager.
However, instead of addressing the query, the manager responded with offensive language directed at Attarwala. Accusations of attempting to evade payment were met with insults and further escalated into a physical altercation. The manager labeled them as “beggars” and engaged in a heated exchange, all the while dismissing Attarwala’s requests to involve the restaurant’s owners to resolve the issue. The altercation unfolded in the presence of 2 to 4 staff members.
In an attempt to mediate, Attarwala sought the assistance of friends Aniket Pardeshi and Ram Tyagi. Yet, their arrival was misunderstood by the manager and staff, leading to a more severe escalation. The situation quickly spiraled out of control, resulting in a tense confrontation involving both parties and around 5 to 6 hotel staff members.
During the confrontation, a restaurant staff member attacked Attarwala, striking him on the head with a glass jar and a beer bottle, causing injury. Simultaneously, Aniket Pardeshi and Ram Tyagi were also subjected to violent assaults to their heads. Shockingly, a female staff member also engaged in physical aggression against Attarwala’s female friend and forcibly removed her t-shirt.
Following the incident, Attarwala and his companions reported the matter to the Kondhwa police station. After receiving medical treatment at Sassoon Hospital, an FIR was filed. However, as of now, no arrests have been made in connection to the incident. The incident highlights the need for swift action and responsible behavior to maintain the safety and dignity of all individuals involved.
