In a recent political development, Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has chosen to retain Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) Minister Dhananjay Munde in the state cabinet. This decision comes amid significant pressure following allegations connecting Munde to the murder of Beed’s Massajog village sarpanch, Santosh Deshmukh.
The controversy centers on Munde’s association with Walmik Karad, who has been arrested in connection with Deshmukh’s murder. Activist Anjali Damania met with Pawar, presenting documents that allegedly establish financial ties between Munde and Karad. These documents suggest that Munde’s wife, Rajshri, and Karad are business partners, indicating a deeper connection.
Following his meeting with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Pawar addressed the media, stating that the evidence provided by Damania would be handed over to the Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for a thorough probe. He emphasized that both he and the Chief Minister believe in allowing the investigative agencies to examine all allegations impartially. Pawar remarked, “We have been repeatedly saying that whoever is found guilty will face action. No one will be spared.”
Despite the mounting demands for Munde’s resignation, Pawar clarified that there is no question of taking action unless Munde is directly linked to the crime. He stated, “The brutal murder of the sarpanch is a blot on humanity and no one can support it. We have repeatedly said that all those guilty of it will be hanged.”
Munde, maintaining his innocence, attended the state cabinet meeting and addressed the resignation demands. He expressed confidence in the leadership’s decision-making, stating that Deputy Chief Minister Pawar and Chief Minister Fadnavis would determine his fate based on the evidence. Munde reiterated his call for swift justice against those involved in Deshmukh’s murder and denied allegations of violating the Office of Profit laws. He explained that the Maharashtra State Power Generation Company (Mahagenco) is an independent corporation and not related to the state government, thus not falling under the purview of the Office of Profit.
Within the NCP, there is a sentiment that removing Munde could set a precedent, leading to continuous allegations against other ministers. A senior NCP leader commented, “This will encourage the opposition to come out with allegations against other ministers, and it will become a never-ending cycle.”
Looking ahead, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar is scheduled to visit Beed on January 30 to attend the district planning committee meeting. Notably, he was recently appointed as the guardian minister of the district, replacing Munde.
This situation underscores the intricate balance between political loyalty and the pursuit of justice. As the investigation progresses, the actions of Maharashtra’s leadership will be closely watched, reflecting their commitment to upholding the law while navigating internal party dynamics.
