MUMBAI: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has affirmed that Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar will make the final decision regarding the continuance of NCP leader Dhananjay Munde in the state cabinet. This development comes as pressure mounts on the Mahayuti coalition government due to Munde’s alleged association with a recent criminal case.
The controversy centers on the arrest of Munde’s close aide, Walmik Karad, in connection with the extortion and subsequent murder of Santosh Deshmukh, the sarpanch of Massajog village in Beed district, in December. Munde, who represents the Parli constituency in the same district, has faced increasing calls for his resignation. Notably, NCP working president Supriya Sule has publicly demanded Munde’s resignation on moral grounds.
In response to the allegations, Munde has denied any involvement in the crime and has stated that he will resign if asked by Chief Minister Fadnavis or Deputy Chief Minister Pawar. He emphasized his willingness to cooperate with the ongoing investigation.
As the investigation progresses, the political implications for the Mahayuti coalition government remain uncertain. The decision now rests with Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, whose judgment will be pivotal in determining Munde’s future in the cabinet.
Source: Web Team, C6N
