Maharashtra Minister of Social Justice Dhananjay Munde is likely to hold on to his position in the Maharashtra cabinet, amid allegations of rape by a woman. The NCP took the decision in a late-night meeting of core committee members as leaders from other parties alleged the same woman had tried to “honeytrap” them too. Earlier in the day, NCP chief Sharad Pawar said the allegations against Munde were serious and the party will have to take a decision. However, he would discuss the issue with his senior colleagues before reaching a conclusion. Pawar’s statement was seen as an indication that the party leadership may ask Munde to tender his resignation. Munde said he was ready to accept any decision taken by the party. Munde, who had briefed his case to party boss Sharad Pawar on Wednesday, also met state unit chief Jayant Patil and made his submission.
“I have put up my argument before Pawar and the party. Let Pawar take a decision,’’ said Munde. He has already denied all allegations and claimed that he is being blackmailed by the complainant and her sister with whom he was in a relationship and has two children. Patil said there has been no discussion on Munde’s resignation, nor he has offered to step down. “Munde will not resign just because someone has made allegations. The issue will be discussed in the party to decide the future course of action,” he noted.“Munde was being blackmailed. He had filed a complaint to the police. We need not jump to a conclusion,” said Patil. He added that Munde had also approached the Bombay High Court. “Now, the police should conduct an initial probe into the matter. I am sure you will take note if some woman is defaming a politician by levelling random allegations,” said Patil. Transport Minister and Shiv Sena leader Anil Parab also came to Munde’s defence. “The allegations against Dhananjay Munde will be investigated as per law. A legal decision will then be made. Charges were levelled against Munde, so should he be hanged immediately? Everything would happen legally,” he noted.