A controversy has erupted over a heated phone call between Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and a police officer. The incident was caught on video and has sparked widespread criticism across India.
The video shows Ajit Pawar allegedly shouting at IPS officer Anjana Krishna, a police officer in Solapur, while she was working on cracking down on illegal sand mining. In the clip, Pawar can be heard ordering her to stop her anti-mining action, claiming to be the Deputy Chief Minister. He also threatens to take “action against” her and asks for her contact details to recognize him later.
This online video has sparked outrage because of Pawar’s aggressive tone and behavior, which many see as an abuse of power. Social media users and opposition leaders like Congress General Secretary K.C. Venugopal have condemned Pawar’s conduct. He said the way Pawar spoke to the officer demonstrated how powerful figures sometimes forget their responsibilities and forget to respect government officials doing their duty.
Venugopal also pointed out that instead of encouraging police officers fighting corruption, Pawar tried to stop her from acting on illegal activities. He called Pawar’s later explanation for the incident “insincere” and said he has not apologized for his rude behavior. He emphasized that such conduct sets a poor example and shows a misuse of authority.
The controversy started after the viral video, filmed on August 31, surfaced online. It shows Pawar speaking to Krishna over a phone call, made from the phone of a local NCP (Nationalist Congress Party) worker. In the video, Pawar is heard telling her, “Stop this,” and even threatening to take action. When Krishna asks to verify his identity by calling him back, Pawar loses his temper and responds aggressively.
Later, Pawar made a video call to Krishna and allegedly ordered her to halt her work on the spot. Critics argue that his tone was inappropriate and intimidating, raising concerns about political interference in police work.
Ajit Pawar responded to the criticism on Friday, saying his only goal was to keep the area peaceful and that he meant no harm. However, many feel his explanation does not justify the aggressive manner in which he spoke to the officer or the public nature of the confrontation.
Anjana Krishna, the police officer involved, hails from Kerala and recently gained recognition for her courage in handling anti-mining operations in Maharashtra. Her calm response during the confrontation has been praised by social media users who believe it highlights the importance of protecting police officers from political pressure.
This incident has reignited debates about the balance of power and respect for law enforcement officials in India. It also raises questions about how political leaders should behave when dealing with officers carrying out their duties.
