Mumbai: In a major political development, Maharashtra’s Food and Civil Supplies Minister Dhananjay Munde has resigned from his position following a raging controversy over the brutal murder of Beed sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh. The move comes amid mounting political pressure and public outrage, particularly after disturbing images of Deshmukh’s murder surfaced online.
The controversy intensified after Walmik Karad, a close aide of Munde, was named as an accused in the case, prompting fresh demands for action from opposition parties. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, and senior NCP leaders held a late-night meeting on Monday to discuss the crisis. Facing political heat, Munde decided to step down, stating that his resignation was necessary in light of recent developments.
Breaking his silence on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Munde expressed his distress over the incident and reiterated his demand for the harshest punishment for those responsible. He stated, “The brutal murder of Santosh Deshmukh has deeply disturbed me. I have consistently demanded strict action against the accused. The investigation is complete, and the charge sheet has been filed. A judicial inquiry is also proposed. Due to my deteriorating health and my sense of responsibility, I have submitted my resignation to the Honorable Chief Minister.”
Munde’s resignation marks a significant political shift, particularly within the Ajit Pawar-led faction of the NCP, which he joined after the party split in 2023. As an influential leader from Beed and the nephew of BJP stalwart Gopinath Munde, his exit is expected to trigger further political turmoil in Maharashtra.
