Pune: Chandrakant Patil and Murlidhar Mohol Hold Talks with Police Commissioner on Rising Crime in Kothrud
Pune: Chandrakant Patil and Murlidhar Mohol Hold Talks with Police Commissioner on Rising Crime in Kothrud
Pune, November 7, 2025: Maharashtra Higher and Technical Education Minister and Kothrud MLA Chandrakant Patil clarified that a photograph with a criminal does not imply involvement in illegal activities, emphasizing that defaming a political leader indirectly tarnishes the city’s reputation.
Speaking to the media after a meeting with Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar, Patil, along with Union Minister of State for Cooperation and Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol, discussed recent crimes and law and order concerns in the Kothrud area.
Patil said, “Thousands of people meet us daily — some of them could have criminal backgrounds. Just because a photograph is taken doesn’t mean we support their actions. We have never endorsed criminal activity. We’ve told the police not to entertain any requests made in our name and to take strict action against criminals. Written complaints should be acted upon immediately.”
He added that police have been instructed to call known offenders and create psychological pressure to prevent crime. “Murder cases have reduced in recent months, and police control over crime has strengthened,” he said.
Addressing community issues, Patil noted that while Kothrud is a Hindu-majority area, “some activities by a few Muslim youths have been observed recently.” He urged police to maintain peace and ensure discipline in matters of religious practices.
Patil also mentioned the Ghaywal passport case, saying, “Everyone knows who helped him get the passport, but targeting leaders without proof damages the city’s image.” He assured that Chief Minister Eknath Shinde is taking the rise in juvenile crime seriously and that concrete measures will be implemented soon.
