High-Profile Arrests in Maharashtra Drug Party Case: Khadse's Son-in-Law Amongst Accused

In a significant development in Maharashtra's drug party case, the police custody of five men, including Pranjal Khewalkar, son-in-law of former minister Eknath Khadse, has been extended until July 31. The development emerged as the prosecution indicated possible discord among the accused during interrogation efforts to trace the drug's origins.

Judicial Magistrate A C Bagal presided over the proceedings, where Khewalkar and other accused, including two women, faced legal scrutiny. Notably, Khewalkar's wife, Rohini Khadse, an NCP (SP) politician and advocate, attended the court session cloaked in a black coat, signaling her supportive stance.

With Amit Yadav, the public prosecutor, pushing for extended custody, the defense argued vehemently against such measures. Advocate Vijay Thombre, representing Khewalkar, argued potential misdirection due to political dynamics, citing an ongoing honey trap case embroiling his client. The Pune police's Crime Branch had earlier apprehended the group in a dramatic raid in Kharadi, seizing substantial quantities of drugs and paraphernalia.

(With inputs from agencies.)