Beed, Maharashtra – In a major development in the investigation of the gruesome murder of Santosh Deshmukh, the sarpanch of Massajog village, Walmik Karad, an alleged associate of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) minister Dhananjay Munde, has been remanded to 14-day judicial custody. The Maharashtra court’s decision on Tuesday comes amidst rising demands for justice and stringent action against the accused under the Maharashtra Control of Organized Crime Act (MCOCA).
Santosh Deshmukh was abducted and brutally murdered on December 9, 2024. The murder reportedly stemmed from his opposition to an extortion racket targeting a windmill company operating in the area. The perpetrators allegedly demanded Rs 2 crore from the company, a demand that Deshmukh openly resisted, leading to his tragic death.
Judicial Proceedings
After surrendering to the police in Pune on December 31, Karad was initially placed in 14-day police custody. On Tuesday, he was transferred to Beed and presented before the court in Kej, which ordered his judicial custody. Karad faces charges under MCOCA, underscoring the organized nature of the alleged crime. Before his surrender, Karad released a video on social media, alleging political vendetta behind his implication in the case. He claimed he was being falsely accused due to rivalry and maintained that he had no involvement in the sarpanch’s murder. Despite his assertions, the investigation has linked him to the extortion attempt and the subsequent killing.
The murder has sparked outrage across the Beed district, with protests demanding justice for the slain sarpanch. On Monday, Santosh Deshmukh’s brother, Dhananjay Deshmukh, led a protest in Massajog village, pressing authorities to apply MCOCA against Karad and ensure a thorough investigation.
“The loss of my brother is a devastating blow to our family and the community. We demand justice and will not rest until all involved are held accountable,” said Dhananjay Deshmukh during the protest.
Karad’s alleged association with NCP minister Dhananjay Munde has added a political angle to the case, raising questions about potential links to higher authorities. While no direct evidence has emerged against Munde, the opposition has seized the opportunity to demand transparency and accountability.
The case has intensified political tensions in Maharashtra, with rival parties accusing the ruling coalition of shielding influential individuals. The government has promised an impartial investigation to address these concerns.
The murder has left the residents of Massajog village in shock. Santosh Deshmukh was widely regarded as a leader who worked tirelessly for the betterment of his community and stood against illegal activities. His death has brought to light the challenges faced by grassroots leaders who confront organized crime and corruption.
The incident has also highlighted the need for stronger measures to protect local leaders and prevent such heinous crimes. Activists and community leaders have called for more stringent laws and proactive governance to ensure safety and justice.
Authorities are now focused on uncovering the full extent of the extortion network and its role in the murder. Karad’s judicial custody is expected to provide investigators with the time needed to connect the dots and bring all culprits to justice. Officials have assured the public of a fair and transparent probe, aiming to restore confidence in the system.
The murder of Santosh Deshmukh has not only exposed the darker side of local politics but also ignited a collective call for justice. As the case unfolds, the people of Beed and Massajog village await accountability and closure for the loss of a leader who stood against corruption. The judicial custody of Walmik Karad under MCOCA is a step forward in this pursuit, but the road to justice remains long and arduous.
