Sarpanch Murder Unveiled: Extortion Motive in Windmill Project

Santosh Deshmukh, a village sarpanch, was killed due to his stance against extortion of an energy firm. The court is set to frame charges against eight individuals involved, including a close aide of a former minister. The case relies on substantial circumstantial and scientific evidence.

The brutal murder of Santosh Deshmukh, the sarpanch of Massajog village, has been linked to his opposition to extortion attempts against a company involved in a windmill project. Prosecution has revealed this motive in a Beed district court, Maharashtra.

The court proceedings are expected to progress with the framing of charges against eight accused individuals next month, including Walmik Karad, connected to former Maharashtra minister Dhananjay Munde. Deshmukh was kidnapped, tortured, and killed in December last year for standing against the extortion.

The case presents evidence that includes audio recordings and documents, relying substantially on circumstantial and scientific materials. Authorities are taking extensive measures to ensure witness protection while the trial unfolds.

(With inputs from agencies.)