In a high profile raid early Sunday morning, Pune Police&rsquo;s Crime Branch busted an alleged rave party at a luxury apartment in the Kharadi area and seized narcotic substances, liquor, and hookah setups. Seven individuals, including Pranjal Khewalkar, the husband of NCP (SP) leader Rohini Khadse, were detained during the operation.
According to senior police officials, the raid was conducted following a tip-off about an ongoing party involving possible drug use. The event was hosted at a studio apartment in one of Kharadi&rsquo;s upscale residential buildings.
&ldquo;Based on specific information, our team raided the apartment and found substances including ganja, alcohol, and hookah setups being consumed. Seven people which included five men and two women, were taken into custody,&rdquo; said the official.
A case has been registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and further investigation is underway.
The incident has now triggered a political storm, with former Maharashtra Minister and NCP (SP) leader Eknath Khadse questioning the motives behind the raid. His daughter Rohini Khadse, the state president of the NCP (SP) women's wing, is closely associated with the party&rsquo;s opposition agenda.
&ldquo;There should be an inquiry into whether this was politically motivated,&rdquo; Khadse told reporters. His remarks hinted at a potential misuse of state machinery to target opposition figures.
Reacting sharply, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sushma Andhare stated that the raid was a clear message to those speaking out against the ruling alliance in Maharashtra. &ldquo;This is not just law enforcement; it&rsquo;s intimidation,&rdquo; she claimed.
The police, however, maintained that the operation was a routine enforcement action based on credible intelligence.
With political tensions rising, the case has taken center stage in Maharashtra's pre-election climate, sparking debates on law enforcement neutrality, drug abuse among elites, and the potential criminalization of political figures.

NCP’s Khadse Kin Among 7 Held in Drug Bust

Drugs, liquor, and hookah seized at upscale Kharadi party; political row erupts

NCP’s Khadse Kin Among 7 Held in Drug Bust

Drugs, liquor, and hookah seized at upscale Kharadi party; political row erupts

July 27, 2025 | 21:46 IST