Minister Resigns Due to Torture-Induced Death
The brutal murder of Santosh Deshmukh, the sarpanch of a village in Maharashtra’s Beed, has sent shockwaves through the state. The investigation into his killing has revealed a chilling tale of extortion, kidnapping, and unspeakable brutality. Nearly three months after the incident, state minister Dhananjay Munde has resigned amid outrage over the involvement of his top aide in the murder.
A Rs 2 Crore Extortion Demand
The tragic story began with Avaada, a green energy company based in Mumbai, working on a project in Beed’s Massajog village. The economic growth in Beed and surrounding districts due to the wind energy sector has attracted criminal elements looking to exploit the situation. An extortion attempt targeting Avaada led to the kidnapping of Sunil Shinde, a project officer, by local crime syndicate leader Sudarshan Ghule. The extortion demand of Rs 2 crore, orchestrated by Walmik Karad, a top aide of Dhananjay Munde, threatened the company’s operations in the region.
Santosh Deshmukh: A Local Hero
Santosh Deshmukh, the courageous sarpanch, stood up against the extortionists to protect the livelihoods of the local residents. He faced threats and intimidation but refused to back down. His efforts to stop the criminal activities led to his brutal murder on December 9. The mastermind behind the killing, Walmik Karad, allegedly ordered Deshmukh’s elimination to clear the way for the extortion bid.
Brutal Torture, Shocking Videos
The details of Santosh Deshmukh’s abduction and murder are horrifying. He was subjected to hours of torture, including beatings with various weapons and sharp objects. The assailants recorded videos and took photos of the brutal act, showcasing their inhumanity. The videos, which surfaced later, depicted the gruesome extent of the violence inflicted on Deshmukh.
How Flames Scalded Minister
As the investigation unfolded, the role of Walmik Karad, a close aide of Dhananjay Munde, in the murder case became apparent. The shocking revelations prompted Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to take action. Amid mounting pressure from the Opposition and public outcry, Dhananjay Munde resigned from his ministerial position. The demand for justice for Santosh Deshmukh grew louder, and calls for harsh punishment for the accused intensified.
A Caste Sub-Plot
The murder of Santosh Deshmukh also shed light on the complex caste politics in the Marathwada region, where Beed is located. The rivalry between Marathas and OBC Vanjaris, which has historical roots, played a role in the events leading up to Deshmukh’s murder. The accused in the case, including Karad, Ghule, and Chate, belong to the Vanjari community, adding another layer of complexity to the already tragic story.
In conclusion, the brutal murder of Santosh Deshmukh has exposed the dark underbelly of extortion and violence in the region. The quest for justice for Deshmukh continues as his community mourns the loss of a brave and selfless leader. The case serves as a stark reminder of the need to address the underlying issues that fuel such heinous crimes and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.