Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has issued a clarification after facing criticism for allegedly “threatening” a woman police officer who was cracking down on illegal excavation in Solapur’s Karmala. A video of the incident had gone viral, drawing sharp reactions from the opposition.
Viral Video Sparks Controversy
The video shows Mr Pawar, who is also the president of the NCP, speaking to Sub-Divisional Police Officer Anjana Krishna. She was halting the illegal excavation of ‘murrum’ – a material used in road construction – in Kurdu village when an NCP worker handed her the phone, saying Mr Pawar was on the line.
Not recognising his voice, Ms Krishna asked him to call her directly. In the exchange, Mr Pawar is heard saying, “Mai tere upar action lunga (I will act against you). Tera number de do ya WhatsApp call karo… (Give me your number or call me on WhatsApp).” He then video-called her and allegedly asked her to stop the action.
Opposition Hits Out
The opposition accused Mr Pawar of threatening a police officer to protect illegal activities. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut said, “You are threatening an IPS officer to save the thieves of your party. Illegal excavation of murrum is fraud against the state treasury, and you are the Finance Minister.”
Ajit Pawar Issues Clarification
As the criticism grew, Ajit Pawar posted on X, saying his remarks were being misinterpreted.
“My intention was not to interfere with law enforcement but to ensure that the situation on the ground remained calm and did not escalate further,” he wrote.
He added, “I have the highest respect for our police force and its officers, including women officers who serve with courage. I remain committed to transparency and strict action against illegal activities, including sand mining.” (Source: NDTV)
Support and Warnings
NCP MP Sunil Tatkare defended him, saying Mr Pawar may have spoken firmly only to placate party workers.
Even Rohit Pawar, his nephew from Sharad Pawar’s faction of the NCP, extended support. “Ajit Dada has a straightforward style of speaking, sometimes misunderstood. But attempts are being made by his allies themselves to twist the issue and trap him,” he wrote on X, while urging focus on farmers’ issues and unseasonal rains.
