In a recent development stirring controversy in Maharashtra politics, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has brought to light a concerning connection between a local political leader and a notorious underworld figure. During a press conference in Nagpur, near the Vidhan Bhawan where the Maharashtra assembly's winter session was in progress, BJP leader Nitesh Rane made a startling revelation. He presented a photograph as evidence, alleging the involvement of Uddhav Thackeray-led Sena group's Nashik Mahanagar head, Sudhakar Badgujar, in a social gathering organized by Salim Kutta, a close associate of the infamous underworld don Dawood Ibrahim.

The gravity of this accusation stems from Salim Kutta's criminal background. He is not only closely linked to Dawood Ibrahim but is also a convicted participant in the 1993 bomb blasts. At the time of the party, Kutta was serving a life sentence, and the event in question reportedly occurred on the final day of his parole. This suggests a breach of legal conduct and raises serious questions about the nature of the relationship between political figures and criminal entities.

Nitesh Rane's allegations have prompted the Maharashtra government to take immediate action. In response to these claims, an order has been issued to form a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe into the matter. This investigation aims to uncover the truth behind the alleged interaction between Sudhakar Badgujar and Salim Kutta and to determine the extent of any political-criminal nexus. The involvement of a politician with someone of Kutta's notorious background is alarming, potentially hinting at deeper layers of corruption and criminal influence within the political sphere.

Expanding on his serious allegations, BJP leader Nitesh Rane provided further details about the controversial party allegedly attended by political leaders and underworld figures. According to Rane, the gathering was not just any ordinary event; it was described as a dance party where songs were sung and alcohol was freely available. This description paints a picture of a lively and indulgent atmosphere, which becomes particularly troubling given the reported presence of individuals like Sudhakar Badgujar, a leader of the Uddhav Thackeray (UBT) Sena group, and Salim Kutta, a close associate of underworld don Dawood Ibrahim and a convicted criminal.

Rane expressed concern about the implications of such associations, stating, "association of political leaders with such terrorists doesn't set the right example." This statement underscores the potential danger and ethical issues surrounding the involvement of political figures with individuals linked to terrorism and criminal activities. The suggestion that elected representatives, who are expected to uphold the law and work for the welfare of the public, might be fraternizing with known criminals raises serious questions about their judgment and the potential influence of such connections on their political decisions.

Further developments in this case were shared by Rane, who informed reporters that the matter had garnered the attention of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Acting on concerns raised by Rane, Nashik guardian minister Dadabhuse, and BJP MLA Ashish Shelar, Deputy CM Fadnavis has ordered a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe into these allegations. This move indicates the gravity with which the government is treating these claims and reflects a commitment to thoroughly investigate and understand the nature and extent of these alleged associations.

Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis also addressed the issue in the Maharashtra assembly, ensuring a comprehensive investigation. He stated, "A detailed investigation will be done by the SIT and it will also be investigated if there was anyone’s blessings for such acts and strict action will be taken." This comment from Fadnavis highlights the government's intention to not only uncover the facts surrounding the party and the involvement of political leaders but also to determine if there was any tacit approval or support for such interactions from other influential figures. The assurance of strict action serves as a warning that any wrongdoing uncovered by the investigation will be met with appropriate consequences, reinforcing the rule of law and the accountability of public officials.

Continuing to bolster his claims with tangible evidence, BJP leader Nitish Rane took a significant step to substantiate the allegations he had previously made. In a move to reinforce the seriousness of his accusations, Rane revealed that he possessed video proof of the events he described. During a press briefing held outside the Nagpur Vidhan Bhawan, he even went so far as to display a pen drive to the reporters gathered there. This pen drive, purportedly containing the video evidence, serves as a pivotal element in Rane's argument, potentially offering concrete proof of the illicit gathering and the involvement of key political figures.

Further adding to the mounting evidence, BJP National Spokesperson, Shehzad Poonawalla, played a crucial role in disseminating this information to a wider audience. Poonawalla shared a post on a social media platform (referred to here as "X") along with the video of the said party. This act of sharing the video publicly not only increases the visibility of the allegations but also invites scrutiny and discussion among the public and media, thereby amplifying the pressure on the parties involved.

In response to these developments and the growing public concern, the Maharashtra government took decisive action. On Friday, it announced the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to delve into the matter. The focus of the SIT probe is to investigate the involvement of Salim Kutta, a close aide of underworld don Dawood Ibrahim, in a party with Shiv Sena (UBT) Nashik city president Sudhakar Badgujar at the latter’s farmhouse. This announcement is particularly significant given Kutta's criminal background; he is a convicted participant in the 1993 Bombay bomb blasts, which resulted in the tragic loss of 257 lives and injured over 700 people.

The initiation of the probe was highlighted by MLA Nitesh Rane through a point of information (POI) during a legislative session. Rane emphasized that Kutta was seen partying with Badgujar a day before his parole was set to end. This detail raises serious questions about the nature of their interaction and the possible implications of a political leader associating with a convicted terrorist, especially under such circumstances.

Rane, bolstering his claims, stated that he had in his possession photos and videos of this dance party. These materials, if proven authentic, could provide substantial evidence of the allegations he made. Adding to the gravity of the situation, Rane revealed that the gangster, identified as Salim Kutta, had sinister plans beyond his past criminal activities. According to Rane, Kutta had also intended to target significant landmarks associated with the Shiv Sena party, including the Shiv Sena Bhavan in Mumbai and the residence of the party's founder, Balasaheb Thackeray.

The implications of these revelations are profound. In a direct quote from Rane, he expressed his concern, stating, “Still the party activists are seen dancing with the gangster, who is responsible for killing innocents. The government must inquire who is Badgujar’s godfather and who is protecting him? His CDR records must be checked. If such dreaded criminals are partying openly, it creates doubts in our minds on whether the common citizens of this state are safe or not. The Shiv Sena (UBT) claimed to be Hindutva party, but its senior activists are partying with Dawood’s aides.” This statement highlights the alarming nature of these allegations, questioning the safety of the public and the integrity of the Shiv Sena (UBT) party members.

Responding to the seriousness of these claims, the speaker of the Maharashtra assembly, Rahul Narwekar, acknowledged the issue's gravity. He asked PWD minister Dada Bhuse to provide a response. Minister Bhuse confirmed the dangerous profile of Salim Kutta, describing him as a sharpshooter for Dawood Ibrahim, a notorious enemy of India. He also noted Kutta’s involvement in a plot to attack Sena Bhavan, further intensifying the seriousness of the allegations.

Continuing to address the controversial situation surrounding Sudhakar Badgujar and his alleged ties with underworld figures, BJP leader Nitish Rane made further striking remarks. He highlighted the rapid financial ascent of Badgujar, who reportedly came to Nashik with minimal means but has since become a millionaire. Rane criticized Badgujar's actions, saying, “This Badgujar, who came to Nashik for survival, is today a millionaire. Partying and dancing with such gangsters is an act of supporting terrorism. He is a small fish and there is a need to find out who is blessing him, with whom he is in contact and whether he was involved in anti-India activities? The money trail behind his farmhouse should also be probed. The home minister should order an inquiry at this moment to prevent any possibility of destruction of evidence.” This statement raises questions about the sources of Badgujar's wealth and his connections with criminal elements. Rane's call for an inquiry by the home minister reflects a concern for preserving evidence that could be crucial in uncovering potential links to anti-national activities.

Senior BJP leader Ashish Shelar weighed in on the matter, drawing attention to a broader cultural shift in the state's political landscape. Shelar pointed out a trend he termed as “Peg, penguin and party,” which he claimed had escalated since the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government came to power in 2019. He lamented the fact that this culture continued even after the government's tenure ended two and a half years later. Shelar criticized the Shiv Sena (UBT) for its alleged involvement in such activities despite its claims of being a Hindutva party. He directly addressed Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Ajay Choudhari, challenging him to clarify the party's stance on these issues. Shelar’s statement, “Its unfortunate that those making tall claims of being a Hindutva party are indulged in such acts. (Shiv Sena (UBT)) leader Ajay Choudhari must come clear on whether he supports such activities. Such activities of partying and dancing with convicted terrorists boost terror activities in the country. A thorough inquiry must be conducted on who is protecting elements like Kutta or Billi. I challenged Choudhari to explain the party's stand,” calls for transparency and accountability from the Shiv Sena (UBT) leadership. He emphasized the danger of partying and associating with convicted terrorists, suggesting that it could inadvertently support terrorist activities in the country. Shelar's challenge to Choudhari underlines a demand for clarity and responsibility regarding the party's involvement and stance on these serious allegations.

Addressing the concerns and demands raised by Nitish Rane, Ashish Shelar, and Dada Bhuse, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis acknowledged the gravity of the situation. He responded to the allegations involving Sudhakar Badgujar and his purported connections with criminal elements, particularly his association with Salim Kutta, a close accomplice of Dawood Ibrahim.

Deputy CM Fadnavis stated, “The SIT will probe Badgujar’s links with Dawood’s close accomplice and also others who were part of this party. It will also inquire into who is protecting persons like Badgujar. Those sheltering such dreaded criminals convicted for bomb blasts that killed 257 have lost sensitivity. The SIT would work in a time-bound manner and the guilty will be punished.” This response indicates a commitment from the Maharashtra government to thoroughly investigate the allegations. Fadnavis emphasized the need to explore Badgujar's potential links with Kutta and other attendees of the party. He highlighted the critical nature of understanding who might be providing protection to individuals like Badgujar.

Fadnavis's statement reflects a strong stance against those who may be harboring criminals, particularly those involved in heinous acts like the bomb blasts that resulted in the loss of 257 lives. He criticized such individuals for their lack of sensitivity and moral compass. By ensuring that the Special Investigation Team (SIT) would operate within a specific timeframe and with a clear mandate, Fadnavis conveyed the government's determination to bring the guilty to justice.

Who is Salim Kutta?

Salim Kutta is a central figure in the controversy involving political leaders and the underworld in Maharashtra. To understand the gravity of the situation, it's important to know who Salim Kutta is and his background.

Salim Kutta is notably one of the main accused in the horrific 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts, an event that deeply scarred the city and its people. These blasts were not just a singular event but a series of coordinated attacks that caused widespread devastation. As a result of his involvement in this heinous crime, Salim Kutta is serving a life sentence.

Adding to the complexity of the current situation is the fact that Kutta was out on parole when the alleged party with political figures took place. Parole is a temporary release from prison under certain conditions, and the fact that Kutta was attending a social event while on parole raises serious questions about the nature and extent of his activities during this time.

The 1993 bomb blasts, where Kutta played a significant role, were catastrophic in their impact. They claimed the lives of 257 innocent people and caused injuries to over 700 others. This incident is not just a dark chapter in Mumbai’s history but also a stark reminder of the destructive power of terrorism. The masterminds behind these attacks were underworld don Dawood Ibrahim and Tiger Memon, two names that have become synonymous with organized crime and terrorism in India.

In the unfolding controversy involving Sudhakar Badgujar and his alleged connections with criminal elements, a new perspective emerged from Harsha Badgujar, the wife of the Uddhav Thackeray faction leader Sudhakar Badgujar. Responding to the statements made by BJP leader Nitesh Rane, Harsha Badgujar stepped forward to defend her husband.

Harsha Badgujar addressed the claims regarding the video that Rane presented as evidence of her husband's involvement in the alleged party with Salim Kutta. She provided a significant clarification, stating that the video in question was from a time when the Shiv Sena was a unified party. This detail suggests that the video is not a recent one but dates back to a period when internal divisions within the Shiv Sena had not yet occurred.

Further elaborating on the timeline, Harsha Badgujar claimed that the video was at least 15-16 years old. This assertion, if verified, would place the events shown in the video well in the past, long before the recent allegations of Badgujar's involvement with Salim Kutta. Her claim raises questions about the relevance of the video to the current allegations and the context in which it was recorded. Harsha Badgujar also put forth a strong defense for her husband, asserting that he was being framed.