Eight-member SIT set up to trace ex-sarpanch missing for two months

Kolhapur: Superintendent of police Yogeshkumar Gupta on Tuesday set up a special investigation team (SIT) comprising nine police officers to trace the former Patgaon sarpanch from Bhudargad tehsil, who has been missing for the past two months.The move followed a meeting between Gupta and the family and friends of ex-sarpanch Mahesh Dinkar Pilankar, who had demanded a faster and more focused probe. Acting on their request, the SP appointed a dedicated team headed by Ramdas Ingawale, sub‑divisional officer, Gadhinglaj, who will serve as the first in‑charge. Inspector Ajay Sindkar has been named second in-charge. The SIT also includes inspectors Gorakh Chaudhar (Bhudargad), Sushant Chavan (local crime branch), assistant inspectors Sagar Wagh (LCB), Atish Mhetre (Cyber police station) and LCB officers Ram Koli and Raju Kore."SIT will be monitored entirely by the additional superintendent of police, Gadhinglaj. The officer will ensure coordination among team members and diligent efforts in tracing the missing person. The SIT in-charge must submit regular progress reports to the SP," Gupta said.Activist Satishchandra Kamble welcomed the move but stressed the need for a fair and sustained investigation. "We expect a dedicated and impartial probe. If we notice negligence or lack of progress, we reserve the right to protest," he said.Pilankar's disappearance has remained puzzling. The 52‑year‑old left home on the evening of Jan 7, telling his parents he was going to a party with friends. He briefly returned to fetch curd before stepping out again, but never came back. His motorcycle was later found in his farm, around 2km from his house. During an extended search, police also recovered a burnt skeleton about 200 metres inside the Patgaon forest. Forensic report of the remains is still awaited.