Supriya Sule Calls for a 'Transparent' Investigation into the Murder of Beed Sarpanch

Synopsis
Supriya Sule demands accountability from the Maharashtra government, highlighting the disparity in the investigation of a missing person case versus the murder of Beed sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh, calling for justice and transparency.
Key Takeaways
- Supriya Sule criticizes Maharashtra government for disparities in investigations.
- Six suspects arrested, one remains at large.
- Calls for justice and active participation from women in the community.
- Promises to support the Deshmukh family legally.
- Concerns raised over a climate of fear in Beed.
Beed, Feb 18 (NationPress) NCP-SP working president Supriya Sule criticized the Maharashtra government on Tuesday, highlighting that while the son of former minister Tanaji Sawant, who had gone missing, was located quickly, the police have yet to identify the murderer of Massajog sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh.
Sule visited the bereaved family of Santosh Deshmukh, accompanied by party MP Bajarang Sonawane and legislators Jitendra Awhad and Sandeep Kshirsagar.
She stated that although six individuals have been arrested in connection with the case, the seventh suspect, Krishna Andhale, remains unapprehended.
In her remarks directed at the state government, she questioned: "How can the son of a former minister be found, yet the murderer of Santosh Deshmukh remains elusive? Is it because he is poor, marginalized, and a victim?"
Sule mentioned that NCP-SP Chief Sharad Pawar has taken it upon himself to care for the children of the deceased sarpanch.
"Who believes that Krishna Andhale cannot be located? Let's obtain his call detail records (CDR). Where is the phone disappearing to? We must acquire the CDR of both Krishna Andhale and the other suspects. We will pursue this vigorously," she declared.
The NCP-SP leader also engaged with residents of Massajog, who expressed their desire for justice. Additionally, the Deshmukh family has threatened to resort to fasting in their quest for justice.
She urged, "Women must take up this cause. Carry the banner forward. Maharashtra will not stand for this. We implore you not to go on hunger strikes. If necessary, we will lead the way in this sacrifice."
Sule assured the daughter, mother, and grandmother of Santosh Deshmukh that she would file a court case on their behalf.
"We will unite and fight with determination," she affirmed.
Firmly condemning the alleged climate of fear in Beed and its neighboring areas, she accused the police of attempting to "suppress" the investigation into Santosh Deshmukh's murder.
"There were great expectations placed on Devendra Fadnavis regarding this matter. We have requested a meeting with him and Bajrang Sonawane. I had hoped for justice to be delivered within eight days. As a woman from Maharashtra, I will seek the Chief Minister's audience to demand justice," said Supriya Sule.
Sule informed the villagers that she and Sonawane met with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who assured them that he would look into the issue.
This visit by Sule coincides with ongoing investigations into Santosh Deshmukh's murder by the state CID, a special investigation team, and a judicial committee.
Furthermore, calls are increasing for the resignation of NCP minister Dhananjay Munde due to the arrest of his close associate Walmik Karad under the Maharashtra Control for Organised Crime Act in relation to extortion linked to the case.
NCP president and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has indicated that Munde should make a decision regarding his ministerial position.
In response, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that Ajit Pawar would determine whether Munde would resign.
Both CM Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar emphasized that the government would not overlook anyone implicated in Santosh Deshmukh's murder.