BJP MLA Suresh Dhas Denies Meeting Ajit Pawar to Discuss Dhananjay Munde's Removal in Sarpanch Murder Case

BJP MLA Suresh Dhas has been vocal about the alleged involvement of NCP minister Dhananjay Munde's aides in an extortion case tied to the murder of sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh. On Tuesday, Dhas clarified he did not meet NCP chief Ajit Pawar to discuss Munde's removal. Deshmukh, the sarpanch of Massajog village in Beed district, was abducted and killed on December 9. This was reportedly due to his attempts to stop extortion against an energy firm linked to a windmill project.

Seven individuals have been arrested in connection with Deshmukh's murder. Among them is Walmik Karad, an aide of Munde, who faces charges in a related extortion case. Speaking to reporters, Dhas mentioned meeting Deputy CM Ajit Pawar about financial losses caused by a multi-state cooperative bank affecting people in Beed and nearby areas. He sought Pawar's intervention on this issue.

Investigation and Political Reactions

The Maharashtra government has established a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the sarpanch's murder. However, controversy arose when photos of SIT members with accused individuals surfaced online. Opposition leaders and Dhas have called for a new SIT to ensure impartiality. Dhas stated that Fadnavis has agreed to consider their demand for a new SIT, with decisions expected soon.

When questioned about the deceased sarpanch's family meeting Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Dhas said, "The CM has given them a firm assurance that those involved in the murder case will not be spared. They will face appropriate legal action irrespective of who they are." He also mentioned requesting Fadnavis to provide Santosh Deshmukh's wife with a government job on compassionate grounds.

Political Implications and Demands

Dhas emphasized that their meeting was not about seeking Munde's resignation but rather addressing the Deshmukh family's plight. He highlighted Santosh Deshmukh's role as a BJP booth chief in various elections, noting his loss as significant for the party. "We informed him about the suffering of the Deshmukh family," Dhas added.

Fadnavis has reportedly agreed to offer Santosh Deshmukh's wife a government job in Latur district, ensuring her children's education is not disrupted. Dhas also claimed that those accused in both the murder and extortion cases are habitual offenders.

The situation remains tense as political leaders await further developments from the government regarding the investigation and potential restructuring of the SIT. The focus remains on ensuring justice for Santosh Deshmukh and his family while addressing broader concerns about corruption and crime in the region.