84 Days After the Assault: Chavan Criticizes Fadnavis Government for Inaction on Sarpanch's Murderers
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Synopsis
Prithviraj Chavan criticizes the Fadnavis government for its inaction in the Beed Sarpanch murder case, questioning the delay in action against the criminals and the release of blood-stained photographs.
Key Takeaways
- Chavan condemns government inaction in Sarpanch murder.
- Questions the delay in minister's dismissal.
- Highlights the need for accountability in crime.
- Calls for clarity on government’s actions against criminals.
- Stresses public demand for safety against extortion.
New Delhi, March 6 (NationPress) Former Maharashtra Chief Minister and Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan has launched a fierce critique of the Devendra Fadnavis administration for its inaction and negligence regarding the murder case of the Beed Sarpanch. He questioned what has held back the government from taking decisive action against the perpetrators for such an extended period.
In a statement to IANS, Chavan inquired why it took nearly three months for the Fadnavis administration to 'dismiss' the implicated minister and why the police released graphic images of the Sarpanch just a day prior to the resignation of an NCP minister.
Dhananjay Munde, a minister in the Fadnavis government affiliated with the NCP, stepped down from his position on Wednesday amid escalating outrage regarding his associate Walmik Karad's involvement in the Sarpanch's murder.
Chavan suspected foul play in the entire situation, questioning whether the Chief Minister of Maharashtra was being blackmailed and why it took over two months to initiate action against the 'powerful' offenders.
“I would categorize it as a dismissal rather than a resignation, but what caused a delay of 84 days in taking action? Was someone coercing them not to act against Dhananjay Munde?” the former Chief Minister probed.
“Village Sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh was fighting against extortion threats from a criminal gang led by the minister. What was the Chief Minister doing during those two months?” he demanded.
Chavan further emphasized that the citizens of Maharashtra are seeking clarity on how criminals are operating with impunity in the state, even to the extent of murdering a village Sarpanch for resisting extortion.
“Maharashtra wants to know what measures will be taken against the mastermind behind the gang responsible for this crime. Why did the Maharashtra government publish photographs that had been with the authorities and police for 2.5 months? Was it to pressure Munde to resign? Was he blackmailing the government?” Chavan questioned.
Chavan's comments bring renewed attention to the horrific murder of Santosh Deshmukh, the Sarpanch of Massajog village in Beed district, who was killed for opposing extortion attempts by gangsters.
Santosh Deshmukh endured severe torture and was murdered on December 9 of the previous year at the hands of these criminals.
A video surfaced on social media showing him subjected to extreme brutality during his final hours, with numerous individuals wielding sharp weapons and wooden sticks assaulting him.
As public outcry grew, NCP minister Dhananjay Munde resigned from his ministerial role, reportedly at the behest of the Chief Minister.
