Deshmukh Threatens Legal Action Over Chandiwal Report Release
Anil Deshmukh demands public access to the Justice Chandiwal Commission report or he will seek court intervention.
Deshmukh insists on the release of a 1,400-page report on extortion allegations.
He claims the Maharashtra government has ignored his requests for transparency.
Deshmukh raises concerns over alleged corruption in Kumbh Mela preparations.
In a significant political development, former Maharashtra Home Minister Anil Deshmukh has called on the state governor to ensure the public release of the Justice Chandiwal Commission report. This report pertains to allegations of extortion amounting to Rs100 crore against him. Deshmukh has indicated that he will resort to legal action if the state government does not disclose the findings of the commission, which he claims has been kept under wraps for too long.
The Justice Chandiwal Commission, led by retired Justice Chandiwal, completed a thorough investigation over 13 months and submitted its extensive report, spanning nearly 1,400 pages, to the state government approximately four years ago. Deshmukh has expressed frustration over the lack of response from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, stating that he has sent around 15 letters requesting the report's release without any acknowledgment.
Deshmukh has publicly stated that he is prepared to accept the report's findings, whether they are in his favor or against him. He emphasized the importance of transparency, arguing that if the allegations against him are unfounded, this should also be made public. He is particularly keen on having the report released during the upcoming legislative session to ensure accountability.
In addition to his demands regarding the commission report, Deshmukh has raised alarms about alleged irregularities in the preparations for the Nashik Kumbh Mela, which involve expenditures estimated between Rs35,000 crore and Rs40,000 crore. He has called for an investigation into complaints from local residents regarding the quality of work and potential corruption associated with these projects. Furthermore, he criticized the ruling BJP and Shiv Sena for their lack of coordination, attributing their poor electoral performance to mutual distrust.
Looking ahead, Deshmukh pointed to the recent Nagpur graduates’ constituency election as indicative of public sentiment, suggesting that the votes for Nitesh Karale reflect support for the Maha Vikas Aghadi's ideology. He also noted a growing discontent among the public towards the BJP, citing social media backlash against its leaders. Deshmukh urged the state government to prioritize drought relief and support for distressed farmers over costly infrastructure projects, including the proposed Shaktipeeth expressway.
