Maharashtra Deputy CM Orders Strict Action Over Fugitive Gangster’s Passport Case

Pune, Maharashtra: Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Friday said he has directed Pune police to take the strongest possible action following the illegal acquisition of a passport by fugitive gangster Nilesh Ghaywal.

Ghaywal, wanted in multiple cases including murder and extortion, is believed to have fled abroad. Authorities allege he obtained the passport through fraudulent means, sparking criticism from the Opposition over government oversight.

“I have instructed the Pune police commissioner to take the strictest action against anyone attempting to violate rules or take the law into their own hands,” Pawar said.

The gangster recently made headlines after his associates allegedly shot and injured a man in a road rage incident in Pune. Meanwhile, his brother Sachin Ghaywal has been in the spotlight over a gun licence controversy, with Maharashtra Minister of State for Home Yogesh Kadam under scrutiny for allegedly approving an arms licence despite adverse recommendations from Pune police.

Pawar clarified that while the home department approved the licence, the Pune police chief had not granted it, and he assured there would be no political interference in the case.

“I was with the Chief Minister yesterday, and he also emphasized that action will be taken against those responsible,” Pawar added.

As the guardian minister of Pune, Pawar confirmed that an inquiry is underway into how Ghaywal obtained the passport and whether there was any official recommendation involved.