Why Did Maha Dy CM Shinde Promise Fast-Track Justice and Death Penalty for Khopoli Activist's Murder?
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Synopsis
Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has condemned the shocking murder of activist Mangesh Kalokhe, vowing to ensure swift justice through a fast-track trial and the application of stringent laws against the accused. This incident reveals the darker side of political rivalry in Khopoli and raises questions about safety in local governance.
Key Takeaways
- Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister vows fast-track justice for Mangesh Kalokhe's murder.
- Application of MCOCA to ensure severe penalties for the accused.
- Community backlash leads to a complete shutdown in Khopoli.
- Political tensions highlighted following local elections.
- Call for accountability in local governance.
Raigad, Dec 27 (NationPress) Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister and Shiv Sena leader, Eknath Shinde, expressed outrage over the brutal murder of social activist Mangesh Kalokhe (45), a former councillor and the spouse of Manasi Kalokhe, the newly elected Shiv Sena Councillor from Ward No 3 in Khopoli. He described this incident as a “blot on humanity” and assured the victim's family of prompt and stringent justice.
Shinde visited Khopoli after the daylight murder of Mangesh Kalokhe on Friday ignited significant political unrest in the area, with accusations of political revenge following the recent local elections.
He labeled the murder as a pre-planned conspiracy.
The activist was horrifically attacked while en route to drop his daughter at school.
The Deputy Chief Minister pointed out that the assailants had closely observed the activist's movements, executing their crime with careful planning.
In light of the public's outrage and the family's sorrow, Shinde declared that this case would be processed in a fast-track court.
He also pledged to appoint a Special Public Prosecutor and apply the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) against all accused, aiming for the death penalty.
Shinde criticized the culture of “revenge politics”, emphasizing that such distorted attitudes have no place in a democratic society.
He stressed that while electoral outcomes are expected, taking a life out of revenge poses a grave danger to society.
The Deputy Chief Minister assured that law enforcement is diligently working to identify and apprehend every individual involved in this heinous act.
“No one will escape justice,” he vowed, reiterating that the current Mahayuti government will ensure that the criminals face the gallows.
Earlier, Khopoli experienced a complete shutdown (bandh) as irate Shiv Sena supporters and local residents gathered at the police station, demanding justice.
The victim's family has called for the suspension of Khopoli Senior Inspector Sachin Hire, claiming he disregarded Mangesh Kalokhe's previous reports of receiving death threats from activists of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP).
Shiv Sena Minister Bharat Gogawale and party MP Shrirang Barne visited Khopoli to meet with Superintendent of Police Aanchal Dalal, urging a swift investigation.
In the municipal council elections held on December 21, Manasi Kalokhe triumphed over Urmila Devkar (from the Ajit Pawar-led NCP faction) by a margin of over 700 votes.
Mangesh Kalokhe was a steadfast supporter of Shiv Sena MLA Mahendra Thorve.
The opposing faction implicated in the FIR includes supporters of NCP MP and State party President Sunil Tatkare.
The Raigad Police have filed an FIR against 10 individuals.
Point of View
The murder of Mangesh Kalokhe highlights serious concerns regarding political rivalry and the safety of local activists in Maharashtra. The Deputy Chief Minister's commitment to fast-track justice and apply stringent laws like MCOCA reflects a necessary response to public outrage. It raises critical questions about the intersection of politics and violence, underscoring the need for accountability and reform in the political landscape.
NationPress
29/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Mangesh Kalokhe?
Mangesh Kalokhe, a local social activist, was brutally murdered in broad daylight while taking his daughter to school, raising serious concerns about political violence.
What measures is the government taking in this case?
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has promised a fast-track trial and the application of MCOCA against the accused to ensure they face the death penalty.
Why is this murder significant?
The murder of Mangesh Kalokhe is significant as it highlights the dangers of political rivalry and raises concerns about the safety of activists in Maharashtra.
What was the community's reaction?
The community reacted with anger, leading to a complete shutdown in Khopoli as residents demanded justice for Kalokhe.
Who are the alleged attackers?
The alleged attackers are believed to be linked to the Nationalist Congress Party, reflecting the political tensions in the region.
