Countering the allegation of the prosecution that Sakhre, along with Karnataki and a few others, visited Natu’s residence and threatened to sell his portion of the property, Nimbalkar said, "Sakhre had gone to take possession of the other half part of the house which was sold to Karnataki and not force Natu to part with his share." He said that a civil suit regarding the partition of property was pending; Natu unconditionally withdrew this.

Additional public prosecutor Neelima Vartak said the investigation is at a preliminary stage and the statements of some suspects have been recorded. "The police custody of the accused is required as the role of all in forcibly acquiring the property is to be enquired. Also, it has to be ascertained whether the accused pressurised Natu into selling his share in the property."

The prosecution on Wednesday demanded time to reply on whether the custody of the accused is necessary, if yes, then of whom and why?

Meanwhile, even after two days of extensive search operation, the crime branch was unable to arrest Mankar. Searches were conducted in different parts of Pune, Mumbai and Kopargaon, but in vain. Deputy Commissioner of Police (crime) Anil Kumbhare said that the search operation is on.