The 46-year-old ENT specialist, who practised in Panvel, Satara, Nashik and Kolhapur, hails from Devgad in Konkan. He is in charge of the Sanstha's medical wing. He said around 800 people associated with the Sanstha have been questioned by investigation agencies to date. Tawde has taken part in several meets and agitations organised by the Sanstha across the state. Abhay Vartak, spoke-sperson of the Sanstha, told reporters in Mumbai that Tawde's arrest is part of a consistent smear campaign against the organisation.

Source: Mid-Day June 12, 2016 06:00 UTC