Overview
- Santosh Deshmukh, the sarpanch of Massajog village in Beed, was murdered on December 9 after opposing an extortion attempt tied to wind power operations.
- Key suspect Walmik Karad, allegedly linked to NCP minister Dhananjay Munde, remains at large, raising accusations of political interference in the investigation.
- Thousands, including political leaders and activists, have participated in protests demanding justice, with Deshmukh's teenage daughter calling for swift action.
- Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has transferred the case to the CID, ordered property attachments of absconding suspects, and initiated gun license reviews in Beed.
- The incident has intensified political tensions, with opposition leaders and some BJP members demanding Munde's resignation over his alleged connections to Karad.