Prepare for Strict Action Under MCOCA for Extortion and Ransom: Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar
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Synopsis
Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has issued a stern warning to his party members against extortion and ransom during development projects, stating that those engaged in such activities would face charges under the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA). His remarks come amid the ongoing investigation into the murder of a local sarpanch.
Key Takeaways
- Ajit Pawar warns against extortion and ransom.
- Involvement in such acts will lead to MCOCA charges.
- Strict action against reckless use of firearms.
- Development works must focus on integrity.
- Party workers urged to maintain a clean image.
Beed, Jan 30 (NationPress) - Deputy Chief Minister and NCP leader Ajit Pawar issued a firm warning to his party members on Thursday, emphasizing that he would not tolerate any involvement in extortion or ransom during development projects. He stated that individuals found guilty of such activities would face charges under the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA).
This statement comes in light of the ongoing turmoil surrounding the heinous murder of Massajog sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh and the call for the arrest of Food and Civil Supply Minister Dhananjay Munde, given the connections of his associate Walmik Karad to the case.
Ajit Pawar also declared that if any party official or citizen is caught firing a weapon into the air for social media content, he would instruct the police to revoke their firearm license.
During his engagement with party officials, this was Ajit Pawar's first visit to Beed following the appointment of the district's guardian ministers.
Upon arriving at the airport early in the day, Ajit Pawar went to the party office and urged members to prioritize their reputation and avoid any misconduct.
“Beed has been frequently in the headlines due to the murder of sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh. No one should fall prey to rumors. Action will be taken wherever valid concerns exist. Concurrently, no one should attempt to extort funds while executing development projects. Should I receive any reports of such behavior, I will not hesitate to enforce MCOCA. I will adopt a stringent approach. I will also scrutinize government officials, some of whom have remained here for extended periods. I will ensure there is no bias,” Ajit Pawar warned.
This caution is particularly significant as party Minister Dhananjay Munde's close associate Walmik Karad was arrested on extortion charges linked to the murder of sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh. Following public outcry, Karad was charged under MCOCA. However, Ajit Pawar has dismissed calls for Dhananjay Munde's resignation, stating that actions will be determined after the ongoing investigations conducted by the CID, special investigation team, and judicial committee.
Regarding the irresponsible display of firearms for entertainment purposes, Ajit Pawar commented that recent social media posts showing individuals firing guns into the air or parading with firearms have gained significant attention. “We often see on television instances of people shooting into the air or flaunting guns. I will instruct the police to revoke the licenses of those engaging in such behavior. Firearms are meant for personal safety. Therefore, I will not tolerate the creation of reels as a form of entertainment,” he cautioned.
On the subject of development initiatives, Ajit Pawar stated, “I will undertake the projects within my purview, while those requiring the Chief Minister's approval will be communicated to him. I will also involve local representatives in this process. There are two colleagues from your region in the cabinet - Dhananjay Munde and Pankaja Munde. I will consult with them as well. There will be no favoritism in the execution of work. However, if I offer impartiality, then those benefiting from this should also refrain from bias. If I am met with duplicity, I will withdraw my support. I am not a saint; my focus remains on development.”
“Public funds must be utilized judiciously. We cannot afford to mismanage them since resources are limited. We will seek additional funding from the Center. Our goal is to address the common people's issues through the District Planning and Development Council,” he stated.
Ajit Pawar reminded party members that the NCP adheres to a secular ideology. “The way Yashwantrao Chavan shaped Maharashtra, our party aims to follow that same trajectory... I expect all party officials to work tirelessly for the organization and the advancement of Beed. There must be a concerted effort to maintain a positive public image. Party workers should strive to improve the perception of Beed, which is currently being misrepresented in the media,” he concluded.
He also urged party officials to intensify their recruitment efforts during the membership drive.
The NCP chief encouraged party members to prepare for the forthcoming local and civic body elections to secure victories for both the NCP and Mahayuti.
In his capacity as the Beed district guardian minister, Ajit Pawar led the District Planning and Development Council to finalize the district's development strategy.
