The complainants allege that Sudesh Wankhede, the president’s husband, summoned sarpanchs and their relatives to the family’s bungalow, pressured them for money citing alleged irregularities in panchayat works, and threatened to post adverse reports on social media if demands were not met. Audio recordings of phone conversations have been submitted as evidence along with the complaints.
One such complaint was filed on December 27 by Dharamchand Savner, husband of the sarpanch of Dhodhwada Gram Panchayat under Khandwa Janpad. Savner alleged that after an inspection of a ₹36 lakh gram panchayat building in November, a demand of ₹50,000 was made, citing poor construction quality. He claimed that when ₹10,000 was sent through the panchayat secretary, it was refused. Two days later, President Pinky Wankhede posted a letter on social media highlighting alleged construction flaws and marked it to senior authorities, including the Lokayukta and the Panchayat Minister.
A similar complaint has been filed by Ajay Thakur, husband of the sarpanch of Nahalda Gram Panchayat. Thakur alleged repeated phone calls demanding money, coupled with threats of defaming the panchayat and initiating inquiries. Police sources confirmed that an audio recording submitted by Thakur is being examined as part of the complaint.
The issue has gained traction due to Pinky Wankhede’s public profile. The District Panchayat president, popularly referred to as “Letter Madam,” regularly posts multiple official letters on social media, often tagging senior officials and issuing reminder notices if action is not taken. Critics have questioned why alleged shortcomings are highlighted weeks after inspections through social media instead of being addressed immediately through official channels.
Responding to the allegations, Pinky Wankhede denied any wrongdoing, stating that inspections are carried out following villagers’ complaints and that the allegations are an attempt to deflect attention from poor ground-level work. “As public representatives, sarpanchs visit our residence. We extend basic hospitality. Beyond that, the allegations are baseless,” she said.
Sudesh Wankhede also rejected claims of monetary demands, saying conversations were general in nature and aimed at ensuring quality work. Meanwhile, officials confirmed that complaints received on the CM Helpline are under scrutiny, and guidance has been sought from senior authorities regarding further action.
The developments are likely to intensify political and administrative scrutiny of the district panchayat’s functioning in the coming days.
