Daijiworld Media Network- Mumbai
Mumbai, Jan 6: A fierce political uproar ensued on Monday as an all-party delegation met Maharashtra Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan, demanding the resignation of NCP Minister Dhananjay Munde following the brutal murder of Santosh Deshmukh, the Sarpanch of Massajog village in Beed district.
The delegation accused Munde of involvement and interference in the case and called for his immediate exit from the cabinet. They also demanded the swift filing of a murder case against Walmik Karad, the mastermind behind the horrific kidnapping, extortion, and killing of Deshmukh, with proceedings expedited in a fast-track court to restore the rule of law.
Furthermore, the delegation urged the Governor to hold law enforcement accountable for their alleged negligence and bias, demanding action against police personnel who failed to perform their duties. They sought the Governor's intervention to restore public trust and safety in Beed district, warning that the rising tide of extortion and violence must be quelled immediately.
The high-powered delegation included Opposition Leader in the state council Ambadas Danve, former MP Chhatrapati Sambhajiraje, Beed MP Bajrang Sonawane (NCP-SP), Beed MLA Sandeep Kshirsagar (NCP-SP), Ashti MLA Suresh Dhas (BJP), and Congress MLA Vijay Wadettiwar, among others.
"The shocking murder of Santosh Deshmukh and the ongoing reign of terror in Beed underscore a catastrophic failure of law enforcement. The state's alleged shielding of the accused and the biased handling of the investigation have shattered public confidence," the delegation stated, urging the Governor to act swiftly in light of the unfolding crisis.
The delegation pointed to the dramatic events surrounding Karad’s surrender on December 31, 2024, which saw chaos erupt at the CID headquarters in Pune, as the accused continued to receive preferential treatment. They accused political figures of orchestrating public support for Karad, and criticized the lack of impartiality in the investigation, with claims that some members of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) were influenced by powerful figures.
Once known for its peace-loving, progressive citizens, Beed district has seen a surge in terror-driven activities, allegedly fueled by political power plays. Extortion, kidnapping, and violent crimes have become rampant, with the local police and district administration seemingly complicit in these criminal activities due to political interference.
The gruesome abduction, torture, and murder of Santosh Deshmukh have sent shockwaves throughout Beed, with growing unrest and fears over public safety. The delegation warned that this deteriorating law-and-order situation posed a serious threat not only to Beed but to the state as a whole. They called for immediate action to restore peace, justice, and accountability in the region.