BJP and NCP(SP) Support Dhananjay Munde's Resignation

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BJP and NCP(SP) Support Dhananjay Munde's Resignation

Synopsis

Dhananjay Munde, Maharashtra Minister, resigned amid escalating scrutiny over his alleged connections to a murder and extortion case. BJP leaders expressed their support for his resignation, while the Opposition increased its criticism, demanding he face criminal charges.

Key Takeaways

  • Dhananjay Munde resigns from Maharashtra Cabinet.
  • BJP leaders support his resignation.
  • Opposition calls for criminal treatment of Munde.
  • Connection to extortion case highlighted.
  • Pressure from CID led to resignation.

New Delhi, March 4 (NationPress) As Maharashtra Minister Dhananjay Munde resigned from his role in the state Cabinet, BJP leaders voiced their approval, indicating that the government is moving to ensure accountability for any misconduct. In contrast, the Opposition has intensified its accusations, insisting that Munde should be treated as a criminal.

In an interview with IANS, BJP leader Sanjay Upadhyay remarked, "Let the Opposition say whatever they wish. We are adhering to governance protocols, and anyone determined to be guilty will face consequences."

Pankaja Munde, a fellow BJP leader, also endorsed the resignation, stating, "This should have occurred earlier. I don’t have all the specifics, but I viewed a viral Instagram video depicting the horrific murder of Santosh Deshmukh. Whoever orchestrated that crime and filmed it revealed the depths of human cruelty."

Conversely, NCP(SP) leader Rohit Pawar vehemently denounced the situation, asserting, "A meeting concerning extortion took place at Dhananjay Munde's residence, where he was in attendance. The links to the extortion case are evident. We demand that he be treated as a criminal, given that the meeting occurred at his home. An inquiry must be initiated immediately. The disturbing images circulating on social media infuriate us, yet it’s astonishing that the ruling party did not react sooner. These ministers show utter indifference to such matters."

Munde’s resignation on March 4 occurred shortly after his close aide, Walmik Karad, was identified as the architect behind the murder of Santosh Deshmukh, the sarpanch of Massajog village in Beed. Karad is also implicated in a Rs 2 crore extortion case related to Deshmukh’s demise.

The increasing pressure following a charge sheet issued by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) prompted Munde’s resignation.

Reports indicate that Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar met with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday night to deliberate on the findings from the CID, which have only escalated the scrutiny surrounding Munde.