'How dare you': Ajit Pawar lashes out at woman IPS officer; watch viral video

A video showing Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar allegedly rebuking a woman IPS officer who was taking action against illegal excavation of ‘murrum’ soil in Solapur district has gone viral.

NCP, however, has defended Pawar saying he did not intend to stop the action but might have berated the officer to calm the party workers down.

The party also alleged that the video clip of the incident, which happened three days ago, has been intentionally leaked.


In the video, Pawar is seen speaking to Anjana Krishna, sub-divisional police officer, Karmala, from the phone of an NCP worker. However, the Indian Police Service (IPS) officer does not recognise his voice.

"I can understand what you are saying, but I am unable to figure out if I am talking to the deputy Chief Minister. Can you please call me on my number directly?" the IPS officer asked.

Her reply made Pawar furious. "Ek min, main tere upar action lunga (I will take action against you. I am myself talking to you and you are asking me to call you directly. You want to see me. Take my number and make a WhatsApp call. Itna aapko daring hua hai kya (How dare you?)" the Maharashtra Minister said.


Pawar then turns to video call and allegedly sternly asks her to stop action against illegal excavation of murrum, which is widely used as a sub-base and filling material for road construction.

Further, Krishna is heard saying she could not figure out that the deputy CM was talking to her. Pawar then asks if she recognises his face.

Meanwhile, Pawar said he made the comments to calm the situation and not escalate it further, adding that he has highest respect for the police force and its officers.

"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. I have the highest respect for our police force and its officers, including the women officers who serve with distinction and courage and I value the rule of law above all. I remain firmly committed to transparent governance and to ensuring that every illegal activity, including sand mining, is dealt with strictly as per the law.," Pawar said in a post on X.