Mumbai, September 5, 2025 — Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar clarified on Friday after a viral phone call triggered controversy. In the audio clip, he allegedly asked a woman IPS officer in Solapur to stop action against illegal sand mining.
The call went viral after a video surfaced on social media. Pawar reportedly told IPS officer Anjana Krishna to halt operations in Kurdu village, Karmala Taluka. Krishna questioned if the caller was truly Pawar and asked him to contact her official number. That remark seemed to upset him. Pawar then allegedly challenged her “daring” and hinted at possible action.
The clip spread quickly online and drew strong criticism. Many accused the Deputy CM of interfering in police work.
Responding to the backlash, Pawar said people had misunderstood his words. He explained that he never wanted to block law enforcement. Instead, his concern was to maintain peace and prevent escalation. Pawar also said he respects the police force, especially women officers, and stands by the rule of law.
“Illegal activities, including sand mining, must face strict legal action. Our government is committed to transparency and accountability,” Pawar said.
The row has renewed focus on illegal sand mining in Maharashtra, a problem that continues to test the state administration.
