Activist Anjali Damania, who has been calling for the resignation of Minister Dhananjay Munde over his alleged links to Valmik Karad – an accused in an extortion case related to the murder of sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh – met Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Monday and presented evidence against Munde, which Pawar reportedly reviewed carefully.
Pawar had previously stated that a resignation would only be considered if concrete evidence was provided.
After the meeting, Damania informed the media that she had handed over documents related to a fly ash deal bearing the signatures of Munde and his wife, Rajeshree Munde. She also provided videos, reels, and additional documents as evidence.
Damania stressed that failing to act on this evidence would be unjust, stating, “The documents leave no doubt that this is a cognisable offence. If the Election Commission intervenes, Munde’s election as an MLA could be annulled, and he could lose his Assembly membership.”
Damania revealed that Pawar assured her he would have discussions with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday and come to a joint decision.
She acknowledged that her relationship with Pawar is strained as she has previously fought against the corruption charges involving him.
A cabinet meeting is scheduled for 12.00pm on Tuesday, followed by a likely discussion between Ajit Pawar and Fadnavis.
Meanwhile, the Crime Investigation Department (CID) and the Special Investigation Team (SIT) have launched inquiries into the murder case of Santosh Deshmukh. Nearly eight accused, including Valmik Karad, are currently in custody in connection with the case. As the investigation continues, the Deshmukh family has been actively participating in protests, demanding justice. On Monday, Damania also raised doubts about the doctors who conducted Santosh Deshmukh's post-mortem.
