Solapur Sand Mining Dispute: Ajit Pawar’s Dialogue with IPS Officer Fuels Political Debate

Following the release of a video capturing a discussion between Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar and IPS officer Anjali Krushna, Pawar defended his actions, stating his intent was to maintain calm rather than interfere with police work. He affirmed his respect for the police and his dedication to lawful conduct and dealing with illegal activities like sand mining. The video shows Pawar interacting with Sub-Divisional Police Officer Anjali Krushna in Solapur’s Karmala, who had taken action against illegal sand mining in Kurdu village. In the video clip, the IPS officer asks Pawar to call her directly on her mobile. Pawar then asks her to cease her operations. The opposition has seized upon the opportunity to question the government’s practices, with Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut calling for the Union Home Minister to safeguard the IPS officer.