In a significant development, former Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) corporator Prakash Londhe, currently incarcerated in connection with serious criminal cases, was granted a brief parole of two hours on Tuesday evening. The relief was sanctioned to allow him to attend the funeral of a close relative.
Temporary Release Amidst Tight Security
The former corporator, who has been behind bars since October 7 last year, was permitted to leave prison under strict security arrangements. He made a brief visit to the funeral of his aunt, which saw a large gathering of hundreds of people from the Satpur area. Londhe is contesting the upcoming NMC elections from Ward 11(D) in Satpur on an RPI (A) ticket, despite his legal troubles.
Crackdown on Anti-Social Elements
Londhe's arrest was part of a major crackdown initiated by the Nashik City Police. The drive was launched following a disturbing spike in violent crime, most notably the recording of 7 murders in a single month in September 2025. The police action targeted anti-social elements, including individuals with political connections, in a bid to restore law and order.
Prakash Londhe was the first high-profile arrest made during this crackdown. He was taken into custody in a case related to attempted murder and extortion. Following his arrest, the police received more complaints from the public against Londhe and his two sons, prompting further investigation.
Stringent MCOCA Invoked
Given the gravity of the allegations and the emerging pattern of organised crime, the city police took a decisive step. They invoked the stringent Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) against Prakash Londhe, his two sons, and other members of their alleged gang. This act carries much heavier penalties and makes securing bail considerably more difficult. Since the MCOCA charges were applied, Londhe has remained in judicial custody.
The grant of a short parole for the funeral highlights the procedural allowances within the judicial system for humanitarian reasons, even in cases involving serious charges under acts like MCOCA. The event also underscored Londhe's continued local influence, as evidenced by the substantial crowd that assembled during his brief visit.
