Nagpur/IBNS: Former home minister of Maharashtra Anil Deshmukh received grave injuries after stones were hurled at his car in Nagpur district on Monday.

The NCP leader from Sharadchandra Pawar-faction was attacked when he was returning from a poll meeting.

He was on route to Katol from Tinkheda Bishnoor Road after concluding a meeting in Narkhed village.

According to reports, some people attacked his car by throwing stones near Belphata on Katol Jalalkheda Road. He was sitting in the front passenger seat of the car.

Anil Deshmukh was injured on his head and blood was seen dripping down. A video showed blood stains all over his white kurta.

He is being treated at Alexis Hospital in Nagpur.

The car's windshield was damaged in the attack while one of the windows was shattered and shards of glass were scattered inside the vehicle.

"An investigation has begun. Police are trying to identify those responsible for the attack," Nagpur Rural Superintendent of Police Harssh Poddar was quoted as saying by NDTV.

Deshmukh's supporters gathered outside the Katol police station, demanding swift action against the accused.

Congress leader Balasaheb Thorat condemned the "fatal attack" on Anil Deshmukh.

The attack comes days ahead of Maharashtra polls on Nov 20, the counting of which will be held on Nov 23.