Forensic Tests Advance Investigation into 2023 Beed Businessman Murder
In a significant development in the long-pending murder case of businessman Mahadev Munde, a total of 14 suspects have recently undergone polygraph tests at a forensic laboratory in Mumbai. The investigation, which has spanned over two years, is now progressing with five of these individuals scheduled to undergo narco analysis tests. This scientific approach aims to uncover critical evidence in the brutal crime that occurred on October 20, 2023, in Parli, located within Maharashtra's Beed district.
SIT Provides Detailed Update on Scientific Testing Process
Additional Superintendent of Police Pankaj Kumawat, who leads the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the case, provided insights into the methodology. "Based on suspicion and the findings of our probe so far, we shortlisted and summoned 14 people for the scientific tests," Kumawat explained. "Following the due process, which includes securing prior consent from each individual, all 14 underwent a polygraph test. Subsequently, six were selected for brain mapping, and finally, five will now proceed to narco analysis."
Another SIT officer, speaking anonymously, indicated that the forensic authorities are expected to release the test reports within a couple of weeks, potentially offering new leads in this complex investigation.
Case History and Renewed Momentum Amid Public Outcry
The murder of Mahadev Munde has remained unsolved for more than two years, with investigators struggling to establish both the motive and the perpetrators behind the crime. The case gained fresh attention following a state-wide public outcry over the brutal murder of Massajog sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh, which also occurred in Beed district on December 9, 2024. The brutality involved in Munde's killing was noted to be on a similar scale to that of Deshmukh's, highlighting the severity of the incidents.
Allegations and Arrests in Connection with the Case
In July 2025, Dnyaneshwari, the widow of Mahadev Munde, submitted a representation to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, alleging the involvement of former Parli municipal council president Valmik Karad and his sons in her husband's murder. This allegation was further supported by Bala Bangar, a former loyalist of Karad, who accused Karad of being the "mastermind" behind the crime.
Karad was arrested by the CID on December 31, 2024, in connection with the Deshmukh murder case and remains incarcerated. In response to these developments, the state government constituted an SIT under IPS officer Pankaj Kumawat on July 31, 2025, to revisit and thoroughly investigate Munde's murder.
Forensic Coordination and Medical Findings
The polygraph, brain mapping, and narco analysis tests are being conducted in coordination with the Forensic Science Laboratory at a higher medical facility in Mumbai. Medical examinations revealed that Mahadev Munde sustained 16 injuries, suspected to be inflicted with sharp-edged weapons. His throat was slit from the front, severing the trachea and major blood vessels, which likely caused immediate death. Additionally, there were four stab injuries on the right side of his neck, underscoring the violent nature of the attack.
As the SIT continues its rigorous investigation, these forensic tests represent a crucial step toward resolving a case that has lingered in uncertainty, with hopes pinned on scientific evidence to bring clarity and justice.
