Nagpur Court Hears Accused Masterminded Gadkari Extortion Plot from Jail
A sessions court in Nagpur, currently hearing the high-profile extortion and threat case targeting Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, received startling testimony revealing that the prime accused allegedly orchestrated the entire criminal conspiracy from within prison walls. The court was informed that Jayesh Pujari, while incarcerated at Hindalga Central Jail in Belagavi, maintained detailed diaries containing contact information of numerous prominent political and organizational figures.
Diaries Contained Sensitive Contact Information
Testifying before the court, a former officer from the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) disclosed that Pujari's personal diaries included mobile and landline numbers of several high-profile individuals. These contacts reportedly included Union Minister Nitin Gadkari himself, along with office-bearers of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and various other political leaders. The prosecution argued that Pujari allegedly utilized these contacts to execute a massive Rs100 crore extortion attempt against the prominent political figure.
Key Witness Details Extortion Mechanism
A crucial prosecution witness, identified as Manjula Anandappa, provided detailed testimony about her involvement in the alleged scheme. Described as Pujari's associate who was reportedly in a relationship with him, Anandappa told the court that she obtained the contact number for Gadkari's public relations office on March 15, 2023, following specific instructions from the gangster. The accused then allegedly used this number to place a threatening call on March 21, demanding substantial monetary payment through extortion.
According to the prosecution's narrative, Anandappa was drawn into assisting Pujari under the promise of marriage. She testified that the accused exerted significant pressure on her to ensure her cooperation, including threats involving objectionable photographs. Investigators further informed the court that her bank account was allegedly utilized as part of the extortion attempt, providing financial channels for the criminal enterprise.
Serious Questions About Prison Security
The testimony raised substantial concerns about security protocols within the prison system. The witness stated that Pujari enjoyed access to various amenities while incarcerated, including television and comfortable bedding arrangements. The prosecution argued that these facilities may have enabled him to plan and coordinate the alleged criminal activities from within the prison environment, highlighting potential vulnerabilities in the correctional system that allowed such extensive external communication and conspiracy planning.
The case is being presided over by District and Sessions Judge AK Sharma, with Dhantoli police having registered serious charges against Pujari and two additional co-accused individuals. The trial proceedings will continue with further examination of witnesses expected in upcoming court sessions as the judicial process unfolds this complex criminal conspiracy case.
