Shambhuraj Desai Vows Probe Into Pune Drug Use Video Amidst Political Accusations
Pune, 24th June 2024: Another shocking incident has emerged in Pune, often praised as the “Oxford of the East” for its quality education. A video depicting a group of youths consuming drugs in a restaurant bathroom on FC Road has gone viral, highlighting yet another drug-related issue in Pune recently. This has sparked political accusations from various quarters.
Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) leader Sushma Andhare has accused the Maharashtra State Government in response to the incident, while Maharashtra’s Excise Minister, Shambhuraj Desai, has defended his stance.
Sushma Andhare stated, “We have been raising concerns about the drug issue in Pune for the past eight to nine months, especially after the seizure of drugs worth crores. We have repeatedly questioned Home Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis, and Excise Minister Shambhuraj Desai. Shambhuraj Desai should resign immediately from his ministerial post. Charan Singh B Rajput, Superintendent of Maharashtra Excise Department, should also be suspended. Pune will not improve until these actions are taken.”
In response, Excise Minister and Patan MLA Shambhuraj Desai replied, “We have just viewed the video and will launch a thorough investigation. In the past month alone, we have taken action against 49 hotels and bars in Pune and conducted surprise inspections. This matter will be investigated with utmost seriousness. We will also scrutinize the conduct of the area officer. There is no government collusion with any officer, and action will be taken against anyone found guilty.”
MLA Ravindra Dhangekar has also made serious allegations against Shambhuraj Desai regarding this issue, accusing the police of negligence. He alleged that certain businesses operate solely for profit and claimed that an officer named Rajput receives three crores per month, a portion of which purportedly reaches Minister Shambhuraj Desai.
