Oppn demands probe as Maha BJP minister's aide arrested in honey trap case

Mumbai: Andheri Police have taken businessman Praful Lodha into custody in connection with a honey trap case. Lodha, known to be a close associate of Maharashtra BJP minister Girish Mahajan, had already faced two prior arrests — one related to the alleged sexual abuse of two minor girls, and another involving accusations of rape under the pretence of offering employment.

The latest case has drawn significant political attention, with Lodha’s alleged ties to Mahajan and several other prominent figures being highlighted. Reports suggest that around 72 individuals may be linked to the case, TNIE reported.

Lodha, who hails from Jamner in Jalgaon — the same town as Minister Mahajan — had his electronic devices, including a laptop, mobile phone, and pen drive, seized by police for investigation.

NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) leader and former minister Eknath Khadse suggested that Lodha’s arrest may have been orchestrated due to his possession of sensitive information potentially implicating several politicians.

Khadse urged Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to form a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to thoroughly examine the matter.

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP and spokesperson Sanjay Raut posted a video on social media in which Praful Lodha is seen claiming he possesses damaging footage of BJP minister Girish Mahajan — material that, according to Lodha, could end Mahajan's political career with the press of a single button.

Raut alleged that four ministers in Maharashtra have been implicated in the honey trap scandal and asserted that Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis is aware of who they are. He questioned why Lodha, despite making such serious claims, was now remaining silent, and reiterated the demand for a high-level investigation into the matter.

In response, Minister Girish Mahajan distanced himself from Lodha, stating that Lodha is not exclusively associated with the BJP but has ties across political lines.

Mahajan pointed out that Lodha has been photographed with leaders from several parties, including Sharad Pawar, Uddhav Thackeray, Jayant Patil, and Supriya Sule, and argued that such images alone do not indicate any involvement in the honey trap case.