In a controversial incident that has stirred public outcry, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar found himself at the center of a storm after a video surfaced on September 4, 2025, showing him rebuking IPS officer Anjana Krishna for taking action against illegal ‘murum’ soil excavation in Solapur district. The video, widely circulated by Marathi news channels, captured Pawar sternly instructing Krishna, a sub-divisional police officer in Karmala, to halt the enforcement action during a phone call initiated through a local Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) worker.

The incident, which occurred on August 31, 2025, at Kapre Wasti, involved Krishna and revenue department officials attempting to curb illegal excavation of murum soil, commonly used in road construction. Pawar, addressing the situation via a video call, reportedly failed to be recognized initially by Krishna, escalating tensions. On Friday, September 5, Pawar issued a statement clarifying that his intention was not to interfere with law enforcement but to de-escalate a tense situation. “I value the rule of law and have the highest respect for the police force, including women officers who serve with distinction,” he asserted, emphasizing his commitment to transparent governance and strict action against illegal activities like sand mining.

The controversy prompted swift action from authorities, with Kurduwadi police registering a First Information Report (FIR) against Baba Jagtap, Nitin Mali, Santosh Kapre, Anna Dhane, and 15–20 others for allegedly obstructing Krishna and other officials. The FIR cites sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including charges for assaulting a public servant and unlawful assembly, alongside provisions of the Protection of Environment Act.

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The incident has raised serious questions about political interference in law enforcement, with critics accusing Pawar of undermining the authority of a serving IPS officer. As public and political reactions continue to unfold, the episode underscores the delicate balance between governance, law enforcement, and political influence in addressing illegal activities in Maharashtra.

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