Maharashtra Appoints Ujjwal Nikam as Special Public Prosecutor in Beed Sarpanch Murder Case

Mumbai: The Maharashtra government has appointed renowned senior lawyer Ujjwal Nikam as the special public prosecutor in the high-profile murder case of Santosh Deshmukh, the sarpanch of Massajog village in Beed district. The appointment was announced by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis in a post on X on Wednesday, with advocate Balasaheb Kolhe designated as the assistant special public prosecutor for the case.

Deshmukh, who was abducted and brutally murdered on December 9, 2024, allegedly due to his opposition to an extortion attempt targeting a wind energy company in the region, was a well-known local leader. The murder has drawn significant attention, with Deshmukh’s family members previously demanding the appointment of a senior lawyer to ensure a strong legal case.

Ujjwal Nikam, known for handling several high-profile cases, including the 1993 Mumbai serial blasts and the 26/11 terror attacks, will now lead the prosecution in this case. His experience and reputation are seen as vital for securing justice in this sensitive matter.

The state’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID) is currently investigating the case, with over 150 individuals questioned so far. While several arrests have been made in connection to the murder, three suspects remain at large. Authorities have also posted wanted posters in an effort to gather public assistance in locating the fugitives.

The case is being handled by the Kaij police station in Beed district, and several individuals have been arrested in connection with the murder, including Walmik Karad, a close associate of Maharashtra Minister and NCP leader Dhananjay Munde, who was apprehended in relation to the extortion racket.

The murder case has sparked widespread outrage, and the appointment of Ujjwal Nikam is expected to bolster the prosecution’s efforts. BJP MLA Suresh Dhas had previously met with Chief Minister Fadnavis to request Nikam’s appointment, emphasizing the importance of strengthening the legal proceedings in this case.