MUMBAI: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) president Ajit Pawar has issued a statement addressing a viral video that purportedly shows him rebuking a woman IPS officer, Anjana Krishna, over a phone call. The incident, which occurred two days ago in Kurdu village, Karmala taluka, Solapur district, has stirred significant public and political debate.

In the video, Pawar is seen speaking to Krishna, a sub-divisional police officer, via an NCP worker’s phone, urging her to halt action against illegal 'murrum' soil excavation, a material used in road construction. Reports indicate that Krishna did not initially recognize Pawar’s voice, prompting a sharp response from the Deputy Chief Minister, who questioned her “daring” and threatened action. The exchange escalated when Pawar made a video call to confirm his identity, sternly instructing Krishna to pause the crackdown.

Facing backlash, Pawar clarified his stance on X, stating, “My attention has been drawn to certain videos circulating regarding my interaction with police officials in Solapur. Let me state clearly that my intention was not to interfere with law enforcement but to ensure that the situation on the ground remained calm and did not escalate further.” He emphasized his respect for the police force, particularly women officers, adding, “I value the rule of law above all and remain firmly committed to transparent governance and ensuring that every illegal activity, including sand mining, is dealt with strictly as per the law.”

The NCP, defending Pawar, claimed the video was deliberately leaked to tarnish his image. NCP state president Sunil Tatkare explained, “Ajit Dada may have scolded the officer to pacify party workers, but he never intended to stop the action altogether. He perhaps meant to stop the action briefly just to defuse the situation.” Tatkare reiterated that Pawar does not support illegal activities and is known for his straightforward approach.

The incident has led to a police case against several individuals accused of obstructing Krishna and other officials during the operation. The controversy has sparked discussions about political interference in law enforcement, with critics arguing that Pawar’s actions undermined the officer’s authority, while supporters maintain he was attempting to mediate a tense situation.