In a shocking Nalasopara knife attack, a 33-year-old medical shop owner was injured while protecting his female employee from a man who had allegedly been stalking her. The incident happened around 4:55 PM on July 21, 2025, at a medical store in Nalasopara West.
The victim, Vishal Eknath Aware, owns the store where the female staff member, Mamta Ghadi, works. According to police and eyewitnesses, the attacker – identified as Sahil Sheikh, a local resident of Purvawadi Apartment – had been harassing Mamta for weeks before things turned violent.
Stalking Before the Nalasopara Knife Attack
Mamta had informed Aware earlier that Sheikh was following her and making unwanted advances. She mentioned that he seemed obsessed and had even gone to her residence to try and contact her.
Despite her clear discomfort and disinterest, Sheikh continued to pursue her, leading to a build-up of tension that finally exploded during the Nalasopara knife attack.
What Happened During the Nalasopara Knife Attack
On the afternoon of July 21, Sahil Sheikh allegedly barged into the store and started yelling vulgar comments at Mamta. He reportedly shouted, “I went to your house; now where will you go? Wait, I’ll show you!”
Suddenly, he pulled out a knife from his pocket and ran toward Mamta with the intention to hurt her. But before he could reach her, Aware intervened to block the attack.
In the resulting scuffle, Sheikh slashed Aware on the left cheek and forearm, causing deep injuries. Eyewitnesses say Sheikh kept shouting threats, blaming Aware for Mamta’s escape and daring him to step outside the shop.
This violent confrontation is now being widely referred to as the Nalasopara knife attack, prompting discussions on women’s safety and rising incidents of stalking.
Aftermath of the Nalasopara Knife Attack
Vishal Aware was rushed to a nearby hospital where he received treatment. Fortunately, his injuries were not life-threatening, though they were described as serious.
Meanwhile, the Nalasopara Police registered a case under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023:
- Section 118(2): Attempt to cause grievous hurt
- Section 351(3): Threatening with a weapon
- Section 352: Use of criminal force
As of now, Sahil Sheikh is absconding, and police are actively searching for him. CCTV footage is being reviewed, and locals are being questioned for any information about his whereabouts.
Community Reaction to the Nalasopara Knife Attack
Residents of Nalasopara West are shocked and deeply concerned. Local shopkeepers are now considering improving store security. Many have hailed Aware’s bravery and are calling him a hero for his selfless act.
However, the Nalasopara knife attack has also sparked conversations about why stalking cases are often ignored until they turn dangerous.
Mamta Ghadi is currently safe but shaken. Her family has reportedly asked for police protection until the accused is caught.
Addressing Harassment Before It Escalates
This case shows how stalking, if ignored, can lead to real danger. Mamta did inform her employer, but a police complaint wasn’t filed in time. Police are now urging people, especially women, to report harassment early through portals like National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal so that preventive action can be taken before incidents like the Nalasopara knife attack occur.
Women’s rights activists and legal experts say that stronger action against stalkers and better workplace safety policies are necessary. This includes regular police patrolling, public awareness, and strict legal enforcement.
Conclusion: A Reminder From the Nalasopara Knife Attack
The Nalasopara knife attack is a grim reminder of how quickly obsession and harassment can escalate into life-threatening situations. While Vishal Aware’s courage likely saved a life, the incident raises questions about how we handle early warning signs of stalking and abuse.
The community hopes for swift justice, while Aware’s act of bravery stands out as a testament to humanity and responsibility in difficult moments.