Pune witnessed a large-scale protest - "Jan Aakrosh Morcha" on Sunday as citizens and activists marched from Lal Mahal to the District Collector’s Office, demanding justice for Santosh Deshmukh, the Sarpanch of Massajog village in Beed district, who was murdered on December 9.

It has been 26 days since the tragic incident, during which five suspects, including Valmik Karad, Sudarshan Ghule, and Sudhir Sangle, have been arrested. Police are still on the lookout for one more accused.

The protest was joined by Deshmukh’s family members, who paid tribute to the statue of Jijau at Lal Mahal before the march began. Leading the protest were figures like Manoj Jarange Patil, former Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan, and MP Bajrang Sonawane. Several citizens and representatives of various organizations from Pune district also participated.

Protesters carried placards with strong messages such as “Hang Valmik Karad,” “Chief Minister, Demand Dhananjay Munde’s Resignation,” and “Include Negligent Police Officers as Co-Accused.” The protest also witnessed slogans against NCP leader and minister Dhananjay Munde, accusing him of negligence in the case.

The protest march began at 9 AM and passed through prominent locations, including Phadke Haud Chowk, Khadiche Maidan Chowk, August 15 Chowk, Ladkat Petrol Pump, and Narpatgiri Chowk, before concluding at the District Collector’s Office.

Traffic Adjustments During Protest

To manage the march, traffic diversions were implemented across several major roads, including Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Road, Ganesh Road, and Nehru Road. Deputy Commissioner of Police Dr. Sandeep Bhajibakre announced that heavy vehicles were restricted along these routes.