Former Mumbai Police Chief Denies Extortion Allegations, Challenges Anil Deshmukh to Narco Test

Ex-Mumbai Police Commissioner Param Bir Singh rebuffs corruption claims by former Maharashtra Home Minister Anil Deshmukh, calls them 'wild and baseless.' Singh insists his allegations were not politically motivated and offers to undergo a narco test with Deshmukh. Accusations are linked to an alleged extortion racket.

Former Mumbai Police Commissioner Param Bir Singh has firmly denied allegations made against him by ex-Maharashtra Home Minister Anil Deshmukh, terming them 'wild and baseless.' Singh revealed that he had alerted then-Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray and senior leaders like Sharad Pawar about Deshmukh's alleged involvement in an 'extortion racket,' but no action was taken.

Singh emphasized that his accusations against Deshmukh were not politically motivated and were made independently. He proposed a joint narco test with Deshmukh, asserting that his claims were genuine and not influenced by any political party. The former police chief detailed how he had reported Deshmukh's malpractices to the authorities three years ago, but his complaints were ignored.

In April 2021, Singh had accused Deshmukh of setting a target to collect Rs 100 crore from Mumbai bars and restaurants. Deshmukh, facing CBI and ED charges, is presently out on bail. Singh contended that Deshmukh's recent allegations are a desperate attempt to deflect attention, reiterating that his accusations were factual and not politically driven.

(With inputs from agencies.)