Mon Jan 13 12:19:48 UTC 2025: ## Brother of Slain Sarpanch Threatens Suicide, Demands Justice

**Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, January 13, 2025** – Dhananjay Deshmukh, brother of Santosh Deshmukh, a sarpanch (village head) murdered in Beed district on December 9th, climbed a water tower today and threatened suicide, demanding justice for his brother. His protest followed weeks of alleged inaction and a lack of transparency in the ongoing investigation.

Santosh Deshmukh’s murder is believed to be linked to an extortion attempt against a windmill energy firm. Seven individuals have been arrested, with one still at large, and all eight are charged under the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA). A Special Investigation Team (SIT) from the Maharashtra CID is handling the case.

Dhananjay’s protest, which lasted several hours, caused significant disruption in Massajog village. He was eventually persuaded to come down by Maratha quota leader Manoj Jarange and Beed Superintendent of Police Navneet Kanwat, who assured him of further investigation by CID officials.

Dhananjay accuses the police of withholding information about the investigation for 35 days and alleges intimidation by showing him a photo of one of the accused. He also demands that Walmik Karad, an aide to State minister Dhananjay Munde arrested in a related extortion case, be charged with murder.

Despite climbing down, Dhananjay maintains his protest was not a stunt but a desperate plea for justice. He expressed some confidence after a meeting with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis who promised capital punishment for the accused. However, he stressed the importance of the government fulfilling its promises and setting a precedent against such crimes. The family continues to press for the charges against those involved in the extortion to be upgraded to murder.

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