Maharashtra Minister Resigns After Sarpanch’s Brutal Murder: What Really Happened?

The shocking murder of Santosh Deshmukh, a sarpanch from Beed district, has led to the resignation of Maharashtra’s Food and Civil Supplies Minister, Dhananjay Munde. The case has not only sparked outrage in the region but also exposed a deep political-criminal nexus.

The Gruesome Murder of Santosh Deshmukh

On December 9, 2024, Santosh Deshmukh, a 45-year-old village sarpanch and BJP supporter, was abducted near the Dongaon toll plaza in broad daylight. A group of attackers, armed with rods, stones, and beer bottles, stopped his vehicle and took him away. He was brutally beaten for almost three hours before his body was dumped near his village.

The post-mortem report confirmed that Deshmukh died due to severe internal bleeding and multiple injuries. He is survived by his elderly parents, wife, and two children, aged 13 and 17.

What Led to His Murder?

Three days before the attack, on December 6, 2024, a violent altercation occurred at a windmill energy project site in Massajog village. Four individuals, including Sudarshan and Pratik Ghule, allegedly tried to enter the restricted site. When security personnel stopped them, they reportedly assaulted the guards and the project manager.

Deshmukh, being a local leader, intervened with other villagers, which led to a brief clash. This incident escalated tensions, ultimately leading to his brutal murder on December 9.

Political Connections and Minister’s Resignation

As police investigated the case, they discovered links between the accused and Valmik Karad, a close aide of Minister Dhananjay Munde. With mounting political pressure and demands for justice, Munde stepped down from his ministerial post on March 4, 2025.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis took a strong stance, stating that “nobody will be spared” in the case and that Maharashtra will not tolerate “gunda raj” (hooliganism).

Protests and Legal Battle

Deshmukh’s murder sparked massive protests in Beed district. Angry villagers blocked roads, set a state transport bus on fire, and over 100 people were booked for rioting. His brother also approached the Bombay High Court, accusing Karad of leading a crime syndicate in Beed with political protection.

The petition demanded strict action under the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) and sought Munde’s removal to ensure a fair investigation.

Final Thoughts

The tragic death of Santosh Deshmukh has exposed the deep-rooted crime-politics nexus in Maharashtra. With investigations ongoing, this case has become a major test for the state government’s commitment to law and order. The people of Maharashtra are now waiting to see if justice will truly be served or if this case will become just another political controversy.