Pune: MLA Shankar Mandekar Breaks Silence on Brother’s Arrest in Daund Firing Case: “Let the Law Take Its Own Course”
Daund, 24th July 2025: After the arrest of Kailas alias Balasaheb Mandekar, the younger brother of NCP (Ajit Pawar faction) MLA Shankar Mandekar, in connection with a recent firing incident at New Ambika Kala Kendra in Wakhari, Daund taluka, the legislator has publicly addressed the matter for the first time, clarifying that he has not interfered with the police investigation and has urged authorities to proceed strictly as per the law.
In an official press statement, MLA Mandekar stated, “I was not aware of the incident beforehand. I received a call from police officials yesterday afternoon regarding it, and I immediately told them to follow the law. If anyone is found guilty, whether it’s a stranger or my own brother, legal action should be taken.”
Mandekar further stressed that he has neither applied political pressure nor tried to shield his brother. Instead, he said he personally advised him to cooperate with the police.
“I asked my younger brother to report to the police himself. Everyone in the region knows that I don’t interfere in legal matters, even when my own family is involved.”
Addressing the allegations about firearm possession, Mandekar clarified, “My brother doesn’t hold a gun license, and he did not possess a firearm. The person who owns the weapon must take responsibility. My brother is well-known for his social work, agriculture, and devotion to the Warkari tradition.”
“Everyone has the right to choose their own path. If my brother is at fault, the law should act sternly. I will not protect anyone,” he said.
The firing incident has sparked significant public interest in the Daund region, with three arrests made so far, including Kailas Mandekar. Authorities continue their investigation to establish the motive and sequence of events behind the shooting.
