Workers and the management headed by Manikrao blame the previous one for the factory’s plight and even accuse it of corruption. The previous management, which was headed by Basavjirao Patil, a local Congressman, in turn, blames it on “market conditions and the vagaries of cane farming.”

But everyone is unambiguous about one aspect: the involvement of Shailesh Patil. Says Basavjirao Patil: “During my tenure, too, Shailesh Patil took equal interest and would accompany me when I had to meet government officials. At the government level, he is the one who makes phone calls when we need any help. He also has helped us when we have had to answer banks.”

Tomorrow: How rules were bent to give clearances to N V Distilleries