In a significant political development, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut launched a scathing attack on Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister Devendra Fadnavis following the alleged attack on former minister and Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction) leader Anil Deshmukh. Raut held Fadnavis accountable for what he described as the “complete collapse” of law and order in the state.
Addressing the media, Raut said, “The situation in Maharashtra is unprecedented. Violence during elections has escalated to alarming levels, with even senior leaders like Anil Deshmukh falling victim. This attempted murder in Nagpur, the Home Minister’s own jurisdiction, raises serious questions. Devendra Fadnavis must take full responsibility for the deteriorating law and order.”
Raut also cited past incidents, such as the murder of ex-minister Baba Siddiqui in Mumbai, as further proof of declining safety in Maharashtra. He accused Fadnavis of ruining the state’s security apparatus during his tenure and dismissed BJP’s responses as deflective tactics. “Maharashtra doesn’t need stunt politics from BJP or Narendra Modi. The real stuntman here is Modi, who politicizes like Rajinikanth performs in films,” Raut quipped.
Police Action and Investigation
The Nagpur Rural Police confirmed registering an attempt to murder case against four unidentified individuals connected to the attack. Superintendent of Police Harsh Poddar assured the public of thorough investigations, stating, “A forensic team has been dispatched to the scene to collect evidence. We urge people not to spread misinformation or disrupt law and order. Strict action will be taken against violators.”
Poddar also emphasized the deployment of 2,000 police personnel and 300 CAPF officers across the region to maintain peace. Senior officials, including the Nagpur Circle’s Special Police Inspector General and the District Collector, have visited the site for oversight.
Anil Deshmukh Hospitalized
Deshmukh, who sustained injuries during the attack on his convoy on the Katol-Jalalkheda Road, was admitted to Alexis Hospital for treatment. Hospital officials confirmed his condition is stable, but the incident has sparked widespread outrage and concerns over the safety of political leaders during the ongoing election season.
The attack adds to the political tensions in Maharashtra, with opposition parties targeting the BJP-led government for its failure to maintain public safety during critical times.