Sushma Andhare, a prominent Shiv Sena (UBT) leader, has raised allegations of a connection between Maharashtra ministers Dada Bhuse and Shambhuraj Desai and the arrested drug racketeer, Lalit Patil. Patil was apprehended by Mumbai police in Chennai, following his escape from Pune’s Sassoon General Hospital. Andhare is now urging a narco test for Desai and Bhuse, while also demanding central agencies handle the investigation.
Denying any involvement, Desai firmly rejected the accusations, asserting no association with Patil. Andhare believes that political leaders played a role in Patil’s escape, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive investigation.
She also called for scrutiny of Bhuse’s call records, believing they may reveal evidence of a connection with Patil. Andhare questioned Bhuse’s claim of not knowing Patil, citing that Patil had been brought to Matoshree by Bhuse.
Andhare extended her criticism to Home Minister Devendra Fadnavis, highlighting concerns about the state’s deteriorating law and order situation. She pressed for accountability regarding Patil’s escape and his alleged establishment of a factory in Nashik.
Both Bhuse and Desai strongly denied any wrongdoing and expressed their willingness to cooperate with inquiries. Bhuse emphasized his readiness to undergo a narco test and dismissed the allegations as a publicity stunt, while Desai categorically denied any ties to Patil.