One year after Beed sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh’s murder, family remembers him with emotional tribute
Beed
On the first death anniversary of Beed sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh, his family and villagers gathered to pay tribute, recalling the brutality of the murder and demanding justice.
Beed, November 29, 2025 – The first death anniversary of Santosh Deshmukh, the sarpanch whose brutal murder shook Beed district last year, was marked with emotional scenes as his family, villagers and supporters gathered to remember him. The event brought back painful memories of the December 2024 incident, when Deshmukh was abducted and killed in a case that drew statewide attention. His brother Dhananjay Deshmukh and daughter Vaibhavi were seen struggling to hold back tears as they paid their respects, calling for justice to be delivered without delay.
Villagers recalled how Santosh had been known as a strong, outspoken leader who often raised his voice against local issues, including corruption and illegal activities. Supporters believe his outspokenness and refusal to bend to pressure played a role in the hostility he faced from certain individuals. The murder investigation had revealed shocking details of how he was attacked and killed, leaving the community devastated and fearful.
On the anniversary, the Deshmukh family expressed frustration with the slow pace of the legal process. They said the pain of his loss has not eased, and the thought that those responsible have yet to face full punishment continues to trouble them. They reiterated that the case should be taken to its logical conclusion and that the punishment must match the gravity of the crime. Many villagers echoed the same sentiment, saying the incident has left a deep wound that still hasn’t healed.
The gathering also became a moment of unity for the village. Several residents spoke about Santosh’s work and how he had tried to implement development projects in the area. They said his leadership style was direct and people-oriented, and his absence is still felt in local decision-making. Some villagers described him as someone who helped anyone who approached him, regardless of political alignment.
Local political leaders attended the memorial as well, offering condolences and assuring the family that they stand with them. The Deshmukh family has consistently maintained that justice must not only be delivered but must be seen to be delivered, so people regain confidence in the system. They also pointed out that the fear created by the incident still lingers, especially among young local leaders.
The murder case remains under trial, and charges have been framed against the accused based on the investigation carried out shortly after the incident. While the case is moving through the legal stages, supporters feel it should be prioritised to send a strong message across the district. Several villagers said the anniversary should serve as a reminder that violence against public representatives cannot be ignored or tolerated.
As the ceremony ended, Santosh’s daughter Vaibhavi folded her hands in front of her father’s photo, surrounded by relatives and villagers who promised that they would continue to seek justice in his name. For the people of Beed, the memory of Santosh Deshmukh remains strong — and the demand for justice remains just as urgent.
