Sarpanch Murder Sparks Political Storm in Beed

Praful Patel, former Union minister, urges no political exploitation in Beed sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh's murder case, stressing strict punishment for all accused. The case has escalated tensions between ruling alliance and opposition. NCP leader Ajit Pawar aspires for party's national recognition in upcoming Delhi assembly polls.

No political influence should mar the investigation of the Beed sarpanch murder case, senior NCP leader Praful Patel stated, urging strict punishment for the accused. Patel emphasized the need for a thorough probe into the abduction, torture, and murder of Massajog village sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh on December 9.

The case has become contentious, involving allegations against Walmik Karad, said to be closely linked to NCP minister Dhananjay Munde. Meanwhile, internal discontent within the NCP arose after Chhagan Bhujbal's exclusion from the Fadnavis cabinet, a grievance the party intends to address.

On a strategic front, the Ajit Pawar-led NCP plans to contest the Delhi assembly polls aiming for national recognition. The party also plans to join Mahayuti in upcoming local body elections in Maharashtra. Municipal elections in several cities, including Mumbai, are delayed since early 2022.

(With inputs from agencies.)