In a startling revelation, Shiv Sena has accused former Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray of halting the transfer of the Palghar Sadhu lynching case to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) under the influence of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. Kiran Pawaskar, the Shiv Sena secretary and spokesperson, stated that Thackeray’s compliance with Gandhi’s directive prevented a timely probe into the horrific incident.
The Palghar Sadhu lynching case shook the nation when, on April 16, 2020, two Sadhus associated with the Juna Akhara, 70-year-old Kalpavrishka Giri Maharaj and 35-year-old Sushil Giri Maharaj, along with their driver Nilesh Telgadewere, were brutally lynched by a mob of over 100 people. The mob attacked them while they were on their way from Mumbai to Gujarat to perform the last rites of another Sadhu.
Videos of the incident captured the gruesome lynching, which unfolded in the presence of the police, who reportedly remained passive spectators and even handed the victims over to the mob.
Pawaskar alleged, “There’s evidence suggesting that, under pressure from Gandhi, Thackeray agreed not to transfer the case to the CBI.” He further criticised the Thackeray-led government’s response to the incident, stating that the murder occurred while Thackeray was allegedly indifferent, and the then Home Minister Anil Deshmukh was preoccupied with collecting funds. Pawaskar insinuated that the government’s inaction raised suspicions of complicity in the sadhus’ murder.
Despite demands from Akhara leaders and public outcry, Thackeray’s administration opposed transferring the case to the CBI, which Pawaskar claimed hindered a timely investigation. It was only after Eknath Shinde assumed the role of Chief Minister on June 30, 2022, that the decision to transfer the case to the CBI was made.
The Shiv Sena’s allegations gain significance in light of the affidavit submitted by the Thackeray-led government to the Supreme Court opposing the transfer of the Palghar lynching case to the CBI. The affidavit was submitted after the Supreme Court sought a response on petitions seeking a CBI and NIA probe into the incident.
Reports emerging after the lynching hinted at a broader conspiracy, suggesting the involvement of ultra-left groups, local NCP leaders, and Christian missionary organisations. An FIR into the case mentioned the role of a CPI(M) gram panchayat member in mobilising the mob, raising suspicions of political motivation behind the attack.
The modus operandi used in the lynching, including the obstruction of movement with trees and boulders, mirrored tactics employed by left-wing-extremists, adding to speculations of a planned assault.
Despite demands for a CBI inquiry, the case was initially transferred to the CID, delaying the pursuit of justice for the victims and their families.
