Mumbai, Feb 26: The Maharashtra government has appointed renowned lawyer Ujjwal Nikam as the special public prosecutor in the Santosh Deshmukh murder case, responding to demands from the victim's family. Advocate Balasaheb Kolhe has also been designated as the assistant special public prosecutor in the case.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis confirmed the appointment in a post on X on Wednesday, underscoring the government's commitment to ensuring a strong legal pursuit in the high-profile case.
Background of the Case
Santosh Deshmukh, the sarpanch of Massajog village in Beed district, was abducted and murdered on December 9, 2024. Reports suggest he was targeted for opposing an extortion attempt against a wind energy firm operating in the region.The case took a political turn with the arrest of Walmik Karad, a close aide of Maharashtra minister and NCP leader Dhananjay Munde, in connection with the extortion case.
Current Status of Investigation
The state CID (Criminal Investigation Department) is leading the probe, having interrogated over 150 individuals so far. While several arrests have been made, three suspects remain at large. The Beed police have also put up public posters seeking assistance in tracking down the absconding accused.The case is being handled at Kaij police station in Beed district, and the government’s decision to appoint Ujjwal Nikam—a legal luminary known for prosecuting cases such as the 1993 Mumbai serial blasts and the 26/11 terror attack—is expected to strengthen the case against the accused.
Earlier, BJP MLA Suresh Dhas had urged Fadnavis to assign Nikam to the case, emphasizing the need for a robust prosecution.
