Thu Feb 06 00:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Maharashtra CM Vows Action in Sarpanch Murder, Opposition Demands ED Probe into Minister’s Dealings

**Mumbai, February 6, 2025** – Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis pledged swift justice for the murder of sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh during a visit to Beed district on Wednesday. He assured residents that those responsible would face strict action regardless of their standing.

Meanwhile, the Opposition is demanding an Enforcement Directorate (ED) investigation into the financial dealings of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) minister Dhananjay Munde and his close aide, Walmik Karad. Leader of the Opposition in the Maharashtra Legislative Council, Ambadas Danve, cited the need for transparency following Karad’s arrest in an extortion case linked to the sarpanch’s murder. He drew parallels to a similar case involving an aide of Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray, arguing that if smaller-scale allegations warrant an ED probe, the allegations against Munde and Karad, involving significantly larger sums, should also be investigated.

Danve further accused Munde of running the agriculture department through Karad during his previous tenure, hindering the functioning of many officers. He called for Munde’s dismissal, labeling him “anti-farmer,” and threatened to disrupt the upcoming legislature session if Munde refuses to resign. The allegations also include bypassing a 2016 Union government directive on Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to farmers, as claimed by activist Anjali Damania. Munde has denied all allegations. The Opposition’s pressure on the BJP-led government to dismiss Munde continues to intensify.

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