Conspiracy to Murder MLA Sunil Shelke Exposed; SIT Formed: Announcement by Minister of State for Home Affairs Yogesh Kadam in Legislative Assembly

Mumbai | A shocking conspiracy has been exposed in Pimpri-Chinchwad, revealing that an attempt was being planned to assassinate Maval MLA Sunil Shelke. In this regard, MLA Shelke raised a calling attention motion in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, putting forth serious questions. Responding to his motion, Minister of State for Home Affairs Yogesh Kadam assured that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) would be appointed within seven days to conduct a thorough investigation. However, recognizing the seriousness of the case, the SIT was formed immediately.

Seven Notorious Criminals, Nine Pistols, 42 Live Cartridges…

On July 26, 2023, based on secret information, the Anti-Dacoity Squad of the Pimpri-Chinchwad Police Commissionerate carried out a major operation in the Talegaon Dabhade area. Initially, two criminals were arrested. As the investigation progressed, a total of seven seasoned criminals were apprehended. A cache of deadly weapons was seized from them, including nine pistols, 42 live cartridges, and machetes.

These criminals were already facing multiple serious charges, including murder, attempted murder, arson, extortion, possession of illegal weapons, robbery, and vandalism.

The Sole Intent Was to Kill Sunil Shelke…

During the investigation, a shocking revelation emerged: the seized weapons were to be used specifically for the assassination of MLA Sunil Shelke. The accused confessed to this during interrogation. These criminals hailed from Madhya Pradesh, Jalna, Vadgaon, and Kalewadi areas, and had no personal enmity with Shelke. Hence, MLA Shelke expressed suspicion in the Assembly that a powerful mastermind could be behind these criminals.

“Who Is Investing Lakhs of Rupees?” – MLA Shelke’s Question

MLA Sunil Shelke stated that although this gang belongs to poor and ordinary families, they still managed to procure nine pistols and machetes, which involved expenses running into lakhs of rupees. Not only that, but the renowned lawyers representing the accused were also charging fees in lakhs. Shelke directly questioned, “Who is funding all this?”, and “Who is the real mastermind behind this plot to kill me?”

Roaming in the District Despite Being Externed

Minister Yogesh Kadam responded that the arrested criminals had been imprisoned for one and a half years. After getting bail, they were externed from the district for two years. However, MLA Shelke alleged that despite being externed, these criminals were secretly staying in Pune district.

Thorough Investigation to Be Carried Out…

Considering the gravity of this matter, Yogesh Kadam announced in the Legislative Assembly that a decision to appoint an SIT would be taken within the next seven days. However, due to the seriousness of the case, the SIT was formed immediately. He also stated that among the seven criminals, a man named “Devaraj” from Madhya Pradesh had supplied the weapons, and this information has been shared with the concerned state government. Minister Kadam assured that a thorough investigation would be conducted to find out “who is funding this” and “who is the real mastermind.”

This incident is not just limited to a conspiracy to assassinate a public representative but also raises serious concerns about the law and order situation in the state.