Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Mar 24: The suspension directive against the Superintendent of Police in Satara has sparked unease within the ruling alliance, with reports indicating that leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party were unaware of developments behind the scenes.

Sources said the state BJP leadership has expressed displeasure over the manner in which the decision was taken. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis is learnt to have taken serious note of the issue.

The controversy arose after Deputy Chairperson Neelam Gorhe directed the suspension of Satara SP Tushar Doshi in the Maharashtra Legislative Council. During the session, ministers Ganesh Naik and Uday Samant, who were present in the House, endorsed the action on behalf of the government.

However, the decision was taken in such haste that BJP leaders reportedly remained unaware until later, triggering internal discontent.

The backdrop to the issue lies in tensions during the election for the Satara Zilla Parishad president’s post, where differences had emerged among the BJP, Shiv Sena, and the Nationalist Congress Party. Despite lacking a clear majority, the BJP managed to secure the presidency.

During the election process, a scuffle reportedly broke out between police and leaders, in which minister Shambhuraj Desai sustained injuries. Another minister, Makarand Patil, was also involved in a confrontation with the police. This led to aggressive protests by Shiv Sena and NCP legislators in the Council.

Following this, Gorhe ordered action against the district police chief, which was supported in the House by the ministers present. However, BJP leaders later expressed surprise, especially since the district council leadership in Satara is with the party, and there had been indirect support for the police action.

Reports suggest that efforts are now underway behind the scenes to reconsider the suspension. While Shiv Sena leaders insist that action against the SP is necessary due to alleged manhandling of their ministers, BJP leaders are demanding a proper inquiry before any action is taken.