Key Points
- Drug Bust in Tuljapur: Police seized mephedrone worth ₹2.5 lakh near Tuljapur, Maharashtra, on February 14, 2025, leading to a major investigation.
- 14 Arrests So Far: Authorities have arrested 14 individuals, including a woman from Mumbai suspected to be a key supplier. The total number of accused in the case has risen to 35.
- Temple Priests Under Scrutiny: Allegations have surfaced against at least 11 priests from Tulja Bhavani temple, but local leaders urge caution against defaming the entire priest community.
- Political Links: Some accused reportedly have connections with political parties, adding complexity to the investigation.
- Ongoing Probe: Police are actively pursuing 21 absconding suspects and preparing a chargesheet.
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: In a high-profile drug bust near Tuljapur in Dharashiv district, Maharashtra police seized mephedrone worth ₹2.5 lakh at the Tamalwadi checkpost on Solapur-Tuljapur Road on February 14, 2025. The consignment was reportedly en route to Tuljapur, a temple town famous for the revered Tulja Bhavani temple.
The investigation has led to the arrest of 14 individuals so far, including a woman from Mumbai believed to be a key supplier. Superintendent of Police (SP) Sanjay Jadhav confirmed that drugs were transported from Mumbai by the woman, her husband, and another accomplice. The total number of accused in this case has now reached 35, with authorities actively pursuing 21 absconding suspects.
Temple Priests Allegedly Linked to Drug Racket
A shocking revelation in this case involves alleged links between some priests of the Tulja Bhavani temple and the drug cartel. SP Sanjay Jadhav stated that while it is inappropriate to implicate all priests without evidence, those found guilty will face legal action. Names of at least 11 priests have surfaced during the investigation.
Bipin Shinde, president of the Palika Pujari Mandal of Tuljapur, defended the priest community, stating that many named priests do not regularly serve at the temple. He emphasized that only guilty individuals should be held accountable and called for an end to blanket accusations against all priests.
Political Connections Add Complexity
The case has taken a political turn as some accused are reportedly linked to local political parties. Photos of certain suspects with prominent politicians have surfaced online, sparking controversy. Leaders from rival parties have accused each other of shielding suspects involved in the drug racket.
Mumbai Woman Identified as Key Supplier
One of the main suppliers in this case is a 32-year-old woman from Mumbai who was arrested with the help of local police teams. She is believed to be the mastermind behind this operation and has been remanded into police custody for nine days. Investigators revealed that her husband and brother-in-law also have prior criminal records under NDPS laws.
Community Calls for Fair Investigation
Local leaders and temple authorities have urged police and media outlets to handle this sensitive case responsibly. They stress that false allegations could harm innocent individuals and tarnish the reputation of Tuljapur’s priest community.
What’s Next?
The Dharashiv police are working on filing a comprehensive chargesheet while continuing their search for absconding suspects. The involvement of priests and political figures has added layers of complexity to this case, making it one of Maharashtra’s most talked-about scandals in recent years.
Case Highlights
| Date | Event | Details |
|---|---|---|
| February 14, 2025 | Drug Seizure | ₹2.5 lakh worth mephedrone seized |
| April 9, 2025 | Arrests | Total arrests: 14; Accused: 35 |
| Ongoing | Investigation | Priests and political links under scrutiny |
The Tuljapur drug scandal has shaken Maharashtra with its far-reaching implications involving religious figures and political connections. As investigations continue, authorities face mounting pressure to uncover the truth while ensuring justice for all parties involved.
