Maharashtra Minister Demands Execution of Santosh Deshmukh's Murderers

Mumbai, Dec 26 (NationPress) Amidst increasing pressure for his removal from the Maharashtra Cabinet in relation to the killing of Beed Sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh, newly appointed Food and Civil Supplies Minister Dhananjay Munde addressed the issue on Thursday, asserting that the perpetrators of the sarpanch's murder should be executed.

Following a meeting with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Munde, who has recently taken over his new responsibilities, informed journalists: "From the very beginning, I have maintained that the individuals responsible for the young sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh of Massajog and those who orchestrated this crime should be sentenced to death. I have also consistently called for a swift conclusion to the investigation, the prompt filing of a charge sheet, and for the case to be tried in a fast-track court to ensure that justice is served to Deshmukh's family as quickly as possible."

"The killing of a young sarpanch in Beed district is profoundly tragic and incredibly shocking. Therefore, no one can be shielded in this matter, regardless of their connections. The government will not provide support to anyone involved in this case. The police investigation is progressing rapidly to uncover the underlying causes of this incident," Munde remarked, who is currently facing criticism from various groups.

Anti-corruption activist Anjali Damania has criticized Dhananjay Munde concerning the brutal murder of Santosh Deshmukh. She has alleged that there is "compelling evidence" of a financial connection between Munde and Walmik Karad, who she claims operates a mafia network in the region.

Munde, who is closely aligned with NCP president and Deputy Maharashtra Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, argued that various political factions are exploiting the situation surrounding Santosh Deshmukh's death for their own agendas.

"Regrettably, there are those who are manipulating this situation to undermine my position as a minister and guardian minister, which is consistently damaging my reputation. Certain individuals are focused on disparaging me and trying to associate me with this incident despite my lack of involvement," he stated.

"Some people are attempting to marginalize me socially and politically by exploiting this incident, but this situation is tragic, and my position has been clear from the outset: the culprits must be executed and the true instigator must be revealed. Those who wish to make allegations can proceed, but ultimately, the truth and the mastermind behind the event will become evident," Munde emphasized.

He reiterated the necessity for a transparent investigation and urged for the charge sheet to be filed without delay.

In the meantime, Munde convened a meeting with officials from the Food and Civil Supplies and Consumer Protection departments, instructing them to implement the principles of honesty, transparency, and accountability in their operations, as this department plays a crucial role in delivering services to the public.

"The department must operate effectively by embracing the principles of honesty, transparency, and accountability. Since this department is integral to the daily lives of all citizens, it should function with greater transparency and responsibility. Initiatives such as smart ration cards and modern storage systems will be prioritized,” he remarked.

While formulating a 100-day plan, Munde directed that digitization of the department and the establishment of modern warehousing systems be included, stating that improvements should be made in the department's operations, ensuring that updated information is available at every stage from grain procurement to distribution.

"To expedite food grain distribution, the One Village One Warehouse initiative should be implemented immediately, smart warehouses need to be created, and losses incurred in enhancing the distribution system must be minimized to benefit consumers and beneficiaries. The distribution of smart ration cards should commence, and a proposal must be drafted to decentralize food grain procurement while maximizing warehouse establishments," he concluded.

Munde also proposed the development of a digital dashboard for consumer protection and food distribution, emphasizing the need for widespread awareness campaigns regarding consumer rights, involving schools and colleges, and establishing a mechanism for quick grievance resolution for beneficiaries.