Sanjay Raut accuses Shinde faction in Thane leader murder case

Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut has levelled serious accusations against the Eknath Shinde faction, alleging involvement in the murder of Thane-based party leader Pradeep Punekar. Raut claimed that the "real masterminds" behind the killing belonged to the rival camp within the saffron party that split in 2022.

The murder case took a political turn after Punekar's family members identified former Thane Municipal Corporation mayor Meenakshi Shinde and her husband Rajendra Shinde as being linked to the incident. Meenakshi Shinde, who also holds the position of women's wing chief in Shiv Sena, has not responded to the allegations.

The development marks an escalation in tensions between the two rival Shiv Sena factions, which have been engaged in a bitter political struggle since the party's division two years ago. The case has drawn significant attention as it involves prominent party functionaries and raises questions about internal party dynamics and security.

Authorities have registered the complaint and initiated investigations into the claims made by both Raut and the victim's family. The case is likely to have implications for the political landscape in Thane district, a key stronghold for Shiv Sena.