Political Tension Escalates as Shiv Sena Member Faces Extortion Allegations

Akola’s political landscape has been shaken after the Civil Lines police detained Sagar Bharuka, a Shiv Sena municipal councillor aligned with the Eknath Shinde faction, on accusations of demanding a Rs 15 lakh ransom from a local hotel owner. The police report details that Bharuka allegedly threatened the hotel owner and a staff member on the night of October 3, using abusive language and demanding the large sum.

Bharuka has categorically denied the claims, describing the police action as a politically motivated move lacking proper investigation. He insists that his visit to the hotel was purely for a family meal and that no demand for money was ever made. The episode has intensified the already fragile alliance between the ruling BJP and Shiv Sena in the Akola Municipal Corporation, prompting debates over political interference in law‑enforcement.

The case is now under the scrutiny of the Civil Lines police, with Bharuka expected to be presented before the court on Monday. This incident follows a prior dispute with senior BJP leader Vijay Agrawal, which also resulted in legal action. The forthcoming judicial proceedings will determine whether the allegations hold merit or are part of a broader political strategy.