Deepak Mankar Resigns Amid Pune Sex Racket Probe: What’s the Mystery Behind the Camp Bungalow?
Pune | In April, a serious complaint was lodged at the Samarth Police Station in Pune, alleging sexual assault of a minor girl under the POCSO Act. As the investigation progressed, more women came forward with similar allegations, leading the trail to a man named Shantanu Kukde.
Shantanu Kukde is an office-bearer of the Minority Cell of Ajit Pawar’s NCP faction and has been linked to the exploitation of several women. The investigation revealed the existence of a high-end sex racket involving foreign women operating out of a luxurious bungalow in Pune’s Camp area. Complaints also surfaced about the site being used for illegal dance bar activities and alleged religious conversions.
Financial Web and Mankar’s Involvement
When financial transactions connected to the case were probed, deals worth nearly ₹1.75 crore (approx. 17.5 million rupees) came to light. Three key names emerged — Shantanu Kukde, Deepak Mankar, and a person with the surname Jain. Deepak Mankar was the Pune city president of the NCP. During the investigation, Mankar submitted documents related to these transactions, which were later found to be falsified. Consequently, an additional criminal case was registered against him.
Political Upheaval and Internal Conflict
Following these developments, Deepak Mankar announced his resignation, citing the party’s image as the reason. However, sources suggest the resignation may not have been solely due to the allegations but also due to internal strife within the party. Speculation is rife that factional disputes between the Sunil Tatkare and Ajit Pawar groups, along with local leadership conflicts, might have led to Mankar being subtly pushed out of the party.
What’s Next?
With the Pune Municipal Corporation elections approaching, this scandal could spell trouble for Ajit Pawar’s faction. While the BJP is preparing new leadership, internal factionalism within the NCP is intensifying. The resignation of a heavyweight like Deepak Mankar signals growing internal challenges for the Ajit Pawar group.
Investigation Continues
Many threads in this case are still unraveling. The true nature of Shantanu Kukde’s organization, the extent of women’s exploitation, and the purpose behind the financial dealings are still under investigation. The full picture of who’s connected to whom may soon come to light.
