Dhananjay Munde involved in Rs 200-crore scam when he was minister: BJP MLA Suresh Dhas

CHHATRAPATI SAMBHAJINAGAR: BJP MLA Suresh Dhas on Saturday accused NCP leader Dhananjay Munde of committing a Rs 200 crore scam during his term as the agricultural minister, in a fresh salvo at Munde, who recently stepped down as the cabinet minister citing health issues, following controversy about the Massajog sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh's murder.

Dhas, addressing media persons, alleged that Valmik Karad, a close aide of Munde, was involved in the scam. Karad is facing abduction and murder charges in the Dec 9, 2024, killing of Massajog sarpanch. "I am going to lodge a formal complaint with the enforcement directorate (ED) soon. For now, I am gathering necessary documents in support of the case," Dhas said.

After Deshmukh's murder, Dhas has been leaving no opportunity to directly or indirectly target Munde. "The truth will prevail when the ED investigates the charges," Dhas said.

Dhas had earlier accused Munde of indulging in corruption in crop insurance-related claims and mass purchase of agricultural items. Munde resigned from the cabinet after uproar over viral photos of the sarpanch's murder. He served as the agriculture minister between July 2023 and Nov 2024.

Munde did not react to charges levelled by Dhas till Saturday evening. He could not be reached despite repeated attempts.

Social activist Anjali Damania has also questioned why the alleged corruption issue of Munde did not see any discussion during the ongoing budget session of the state legislature. "In fact, I was the first to raise my voice against his wrongdoings. It was surprising that both the Houses of legislature witnessed no discussion on it," she told media persons.