Pune: In a significant development following the much-publicized confrontation between Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and 2023 batch IPS officer Anjana Krishna, an official inquiry has confirmed that the sand mining in Kurdu village, Solapur district, was illegal.
The probe report has also validated SDPO Anjana Krishna’s intervention as lawful and appropriate.
The inquiry report was submitted by Karmala tehsildar to District Collector Kumar Ashirwad on Tuesday. Acting upon its findings, local police have now registered another FIR against individuals involved in the illegal murum and gravel excavation.
The Incident: Mining Under the Guise of Road Work
On August 31, 2025, officers responded to complaints from villagers in Kurdu village, Madha taluka, regarding alleged illegal mining activities disguised as road construction. The joint team led by the Tehsildar, Prant Adhikari, and SDPO Anjana Krishna arrived at the site for inspection.
Despite villagers claiming that the work was sanctioned by the local Gram Panchayat, no official documentation could be produced. The team proceeded with enforcement action against the excavation, triggering the now-viral confrontation.
The Viral Moment: Video Call From Ajit Pawar
While the operation was underway, Deputy CM Ajit Pawar allegedly made a video call to Anjana Krishna, reportedly questioning the police action. In the video, Anjana Krishna is seen maintaining composure and asserting her authority, refusing to back down under pressure.
The video went viral on social media, with netizens hailing her as the “Daring Lady IPS” and a symbol of fearless governance.
Inquiry Outcome: Illegal Mining Confirmed, Officer Vindicated
According to the inquiry findings–
- The excavation was illegal and violated environmental and land use norms.
- SDPO Anjana Krishna acted within her legal mandate in taking action.
- The police have filed a fresh FIR against those responsible.
Solapur SP Atul Kulkarni has confirmed the findings and stated that there is no complaint against Krishna’s conduct.
Ajit Pawar’s Clarification
Amid growing public support for the IPS officer, Ajit Pawar issued a statement, saying-
“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.”
Despite the statement, political observers note that the incident has highlighted ongoing tensions between bureaucracy and political power in the state.
Public and Institutional Support for Anjana Krishna
Several civil society organizations and IPS associations have voiced support for Anjana Krishna. Many have warned that punishing or transferring officers who uphold the law sends a dangerous message and could discourage young officers.
Sources within the state government suggest that transferring her at this stage is unlikely, as it would appear politically motivated and provoke further backlash, particularly considering her surging public popularity.
Who is IPS Anjana Krishna?
- Batch: 2023 IPS, Maharashtra Cadre
- Current Role: SDPO (Deputy SP) at Karmala, Solapur Rural
- Hometown: Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
- UPSC Rank: AIR 355 (2022)
Background: Daughter of a small shop owner; known for her integrity, journalistic curiosity, and commitment to public service. Before joining the civil services, she briefly interned at a Malayalam newspaper.
Accountability
The Kurdu mining case has evolved from a routine crackdown into a symbol of resistance against political interference. As the inquiry backs IPS Anjana Krishna’s actions, the spotlight now shifts to how the Maharashtra government balances governance, accountability, and political optics in the days ahead.
