In a moment that would test the mettle of any individual, Niketan B Kadam, a 2018-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of the Maharashtra cadre, faced a brutal axe attack by rioters on Tuesday, March 18, 2025. Serving as the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) for Zone 5 in Nagpur, Kadam sustained serious injuries while leading his team to quell violent unrest. Yet, in the face of danger, his courage shone through, marking him as a true hero of the Maharashtra Police. This biography delves into the life of Niketan B Kadam—a journey defined by determination, leadership, and an unyielding commitment to public safety.
Humble Beginnings and a Dream Takes Root
Niketan B Kadam’s story begins in the heart of Maharashtra, where he was born into a modest family with strong values. Though details of his early years remain private, it’s evident that his upbringing instilled in him a deep sense of duty and resilience. Growing up, Kadam was not one to shy away from challenges; instead, he embraced them, setting his sights on a career that would allow him to serve his community on a grand scale.
Education became his stepping stone. With a sharp mind and relentless work ethic, Kadam excelled in his studies, laying the foundation for his ultimate goal: joining the Indian Police Service. His family and peers recall a young man driven by purpose—a quiet determination that would soon propel him into one of India’s most prestigious institutions.
Conquering the UPSC: Entry into the IPS
In 2018, Niketan B Kadam achieved a milestone that countless aspirants dream of—he cleared the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination. Known for its grueling selection process, the UPSC exam tests not just knowledge but endurance, strategy, and resolve. Kadam’s success at a young age placed him in the 2018 batch of the Maharashtra cadre, a testament to his intellect and perseverance.
His training at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy in Hyderabad sharpened his skills, blending academic rigor with physical preparedness. Emerging from the academy, Kadam was no longer just a dreamer—he was a leader ready to uphold the law and protect the people of Maharashtra.
Rising Through the Ranks: A Visionary Officer
Kadam’s career in the Maharashtra Police began with postings that tested his adaptability and grit. Early assignments in rural districts like Dharani in Amravati district showcased his ability to connect with communities while enforcing the law. Here, he went beyond traditional policing, launching initiatives like study centers for local students—an effort that would later see some of those students rise to government positions. This blend of enforcement and empowerment set Kadam apart as a forward-thinking officer.
His dedication didn’t go unnoticed. With each posting, Kadam’s reputation grew, earning him promotions and greater responsibilities. By the time he was appointed DCP of Zone 5 in Nagpur, he had proven himself a capable leader, ready to tackle the complexities of urban policing in a city known for its vibrant yet challenging social landscape.
The Fateful Clash: An Axe Attack in Nagpur
On March 17-18, 2025, Nagpur erupted into chaos. A dispute over Aurangzeb’s tomb sparked violent riots, turning the city’s streets into a battleground. As DCP of Zone 5, Niketan B Kadam was thrust into the eye of the storm, leading his team to restore order in the Mahal area. What began as a routine operation quickly escalated into a life-threatening encounter.
Around 7:30 PM on March 17, Kadam and his unit entered Hansapuri, a narrow alley where they were pursuing suspects. Suddenly, a mob of over 100 rioters ambushed them, armed with axes, stones, and petrol bombs. Eyewitnesses paint a vivid picture: stones raining from rooftops, shouts echoing through the night, and a lone figure—Kadam—standing firm with just a lathi in hand.
In a split-second decision that would define his legacy, Kadam faced an assailant wielding an axe. The weapon arced toward his neck, but Kadam instinctively raised his hand to block it. The blade struck, leaving a deep gash and blood streaming down his arm. Yet, even as pain surged through him, Kadam’s focus remained unshaken—he guided his team to safety, ensuring no further harm came to them.
Two other officers were injured in the stone-pelting, but Kadam’s bravery averted a worse fate. He was rushed to New Era Hospital, where surgeons worked late into the night to repair the damage. Across Nagpur, 33 police personnel, including three DCPs, bore the scars of that violent clash—a stark reminder of the risks they face daily.
From his hospital bed, Kadam recounted the ordeal with striking calm: “I was trying to push them back when one of them came forward with an axe. I got a deep injury on my hand, but thankfully, no one else from our team was seriously hurt.” His words reflect not just survival, but a leader’s resolve to protect those under his command.
A Nation Rallies: Support and Resilience
The attack on Niketan B Kadam ignited a wave of outrage and admiration across India. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis personally contacted him via video call, offering support and praising the Nagpur Police’s courage. “This will definitely increase the confidence of the Nagpur Police, and we will continue to work courageously,” Kadam responded, his spirit unbroken.
Social media buzzed with tributes, with citizens hailing him as a hero. Some posts highlighted unverified claims of rioters targeting female officers, underscoring the incident’s broader implications. Under Commissioner Ravinder Kumar Singal, the Nagpur Police imposed a curfew and launched an investigation, vowing to use CCTV footage to bring the culprits to justice.
Kadam, meanwhile, remained steadfast. “Soon, they will be identified, and legal action will be taken against them,” he declared, a promise that carries the weight of his unwavering commitment. His recovery, though ongoing, is fueled by a determination to return to the field—a testament to his resilience.
The Man Behind the Badge
Who is Niketan B Kadam beyond the uniform? Colleagues describe him as a blend of approachability and authority—a leader who inspires through action rather than words. His initiatives in education and community welfare reveal a deeper vision: policing as a force for progress, not just order. While he keeps his personal life private, those close to him speak of a man grounded in humility, driven by a calling larger than himself.
A Legacy Forged in Courage
Niketan B Kadam’s journey—from a determined student to a battle-tested IPS officer—is a story of grit and grace. The axe attack of March 2025 left a scar on his hand, but it also etched his name into the hearts of a grateful nation. As he heals, India watches with pride, eager to see this young officer rise again.
With years of service ahead, Kadam’s legacy is still unfolding. He stands as a beacon for future officers, proving that true bravery lies not in the absence of fear, but in the choice to confront it. For Niketan B Kadam, duty is more than a job—it’s a promise to protect, no matter the cost.