Fresh allegations in the Mundhwa and Koregaon land scam have triggered political turbulence across Maharashtra. The opposition has accused the government of misusing political influence to facilitate large-scale land grabbing, saying the scandal has now come out in the open.
Social activist Anjali Damania has entered the fray, demanding the resignation of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. The NCP has dismissed her demand, countering that if she has “solid evidence,” she should approach the High Court instead of making public accusations. Damania, however, has indicated that she is prepared to do exactly that.
Calling the Mundhwa land case an “open-and-shut matter,” Damania alleged that the entire transaction was carried out using forged documents. “The LOI, sale deed and even the possession process were all fake,” she said, adding that officials “from the Collector to the Guardian Minister” were involved. She alleged that although Park Company executed the deal, it did so under political protection, which allowed the scam to take place “fearlessly.”
Damania plans to file a petition in the High Court within the next eight days, arguing that no government should have the authority to halt an investigation. “Only the court should have that power,” she said. Drawing a parallel with her earlier fight in the irrigation scam, she added that she would pursue the matter “calmly but firmly.”
She criticised political parties that speak against corruption but whose workers allegedly engage in threats, extortion and strong-arm tactics. According to her, the distribution of money during elections is a serious threat to democracy, and some political leaders must take moral responsibility for allowing it to happen.
Taking a swipe at the government, Damania questioned whether the popular slogan “Na khaunga, na khane doonga” had turned hollow. “If the Election Commission has courage and strength, action should be taken when evidence is clearly available. Otherwise, such slogans mislead voters,” she said.
Damania also expressed doubt over the Election Commission’s willingness to act decisively in cases involving political influence. She reiterated that she will not withdraw her campaign until the truth is revealed. “I will not stop this fight until everything comes out,” she added
