Solapur: The 2023 batch IPS officer of Maharashtra cadre, Anjana Krishna, who recently went viral for standing her ground during a video call confrontation with Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, is at the center of a political and administrative storm. The young officer’s bold action during an illegal mining crackdown in Solapur has garnered national attention and public support, but also raised questions about political pressure and potential repercussions.
Will She Be Transferred? Sources Say Unlikely
Despite intense media focus, sources indicate that the Fadnavis-led Maharashtra government is unlikely to transfer her at this stage. The move would be viewed as politically motivated and could attract further backlash, especially considering her rising popularity and public support.
The Incident: Illegal Mining Crackdown in Solapur
On August 31, 2025, in Kurdu village of Madha taluka in Solapur district, reports of illegal murum and gravel excavation under the guise of road construction prompted a swift response. Based on complaints from villagers, a team led by Tehsildar, Prant Adhikari, and SDPO Anjana Krishna reached the site to investigate.
Villagers claimed the work was authorized by the local Gram Panchayat, but failed to produce official documents. When the authorities began action against the excavation, a video call from Ajit Pawar to the officer reportedly took place — and what happened next captured national attention.
The Viral Moment: Confrontation with Deputy CM
The moment that caught public imagination was Anjana’s calm but firm demeanor during a video call with the Deputy CM, who allegedly questioned her intervention. According to reports, Pawar’s tone was stern, possibly even intimidating, but Anjana stood her ground, continuing to uphold the law.
The video has since gone viral, and netizens have dubbed her the “Daring Lady IPS”, applauding her courage and professionalism.
Political Clarification: Ajit Pawar Responds
Following the public outrage and media scrutiny, Deputy CM Ajit Pawar issued a clarification. He said,
“My intention was not to interfere in law enforcement, but to keep the situation calm. I have the highest respect for the police and women officers. I support strict action against illegal mining.”
Support and Praise for Anjana Krishna
Public sentiment has largely been in Anjana Krishna’s favor. Various IPS associations and civil society members have come out in support of the officer, warning that undue political interference could demoralize upright young officers.
Senior police officers, including Solapur SP Atul Kulkarni, confirmed that an investigation into the illegal mining is ongoing and that there’s no official complaint against the officer’s conduct.
Who Is Anjana Krishna?
- Batch: 2023 IPS, Maharashtra cadre
- Current Posting: SDPO (Deputy Superintendent of Police) at Karmala, Solapur Rural
- Hometown: Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
- UPSC Rank: AIR-355 in 2022
Background: Daughter of a small cloth shop owner, known for her dedication, discipline, and strong administrative skills. She also interned at a Malayalam newspaper prior to joining civil services.
