Activist Manoj Jarange has criticized Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and the ruling Mahayuti government for failing to deliver justice in the Santosh Deshmukh murder case, three months after the incident. He noted that, despite submitting over 150 names for investigation, only nine individuals have surrendered voluntarily, with no arrests made. "This situation should never have occurred. The village demands justice, yet authorities only claim the investigation is ongoing," Jarange stated during his protest in Mhasajog.
Jarange expressed frustration over the lack of progress despite the evidence provided. "The same allegations persist. The entire state can see what is happening. Names have been given, evidence presented, yet no action has been taken. This is a tragic time for the victim’s family," he remarked.
He also mentioned alleged involvement of several individuals, including police officials, in extortion, assault, and corruption. "We must protest repeatedly just to secure one arrest after presenting evidence. What has the government achieved in these three months?" he questioned.
Jarange challenged the government to name even one arrest made. "This was a brutal murder. The government claims no one will be spared, but has anyone been arrested? Provide us with one name. The nine individuals who surrendered did so voluntarily; they were not apprehended by the police. Only public protests prompted any action," he asserted.
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He raised concerns about BJP leader Suresh Dhas' involvement without naming him directly. "Three months have passed, and not a single co-accused has been charged. What is the government doing? You have received the names and evidence, yet taken no action. You couldn't even appoint a prosecutor like Ujjwal Nikam. The people demand justice, but the government obstructs it," he alleged. Jarange accused the government of pushing Deshmukh’s family to extreme actions like hunger strikes. "Each time, they offer comforting words, but the family remains trapped. Regardless of Mahayuti or MVA, Deshmukh’s family should not suffer. The chief minister is sacrificing Santosh Deshmukh for a second time," he concluded.