Tensions Rise Between BJP and Shiv Sena Over Payment Claims in Maharashtra

Mumbai, October 23 (Daily Kiran) : Tensions are escalating in Maharashtra as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Shiv Sena engage in a war of words over claims made by Maratha reservation activist Manoj Jarange Patil. This conflict was ignited by an audio clip presented by Jarange Patil during a recent press conference.

Shiv Sena leader and former minister Ramdas Kadam accused the BJP of attempting to undermine Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. He alleged that the BJP is using Jarange Patil as a pawn in a conspiracy against Shinde and called for a thorough investigation into the audio clip.

In response, BJP MLA Praveen Darekar strongly criticized Kadam’s remarks. Kadam had suggested that the audio clip, which was not created using artificial intelligence, was produced by the BJP itself. Darekar expressed disappointment over Kadam’s irresponsible comments, emphasizing that such statements are inappropriate from a senior leader within the ruling coalition.

During the press conference, Kadam raised pointed questions, asking, “Who has sworn to finish off Eknath Shinde? Is the BJP now afraid of him?” He demanded accountability from the BJP regarding the matter. Kadam asserted that the clip aired by Jarange was linked to the BJP, not AI-generated.

Kadam showcased photographs of a meeting between BJP MLA Prasad Lad and Jarange, revealing that they had conversed for 32 minutes. He stated, “A dedicated activist for the Maratha community provided me this clip. I do not speak without evidence.”

He further claimed that the clip mentioned Darekar’s name, prompting his call for an investigation. Kadam has sent letters regarding this issue to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

Additionally, he accused Jarange Patil of making allegations for personal gain, asserting that his true intentions have now been exposed. Kadam warned, “Jarange Patil should not force me to speak on this matter. He should clarify when he received this clip.”

Targeting both Jarange Patil and BJP MLA Prasad Lad, Kadam questioned their political ties, noting their recent dinner together. He remarked, “Look how deep your friendship has grown!” Lad dismissed Kadam’s allegations, suggesting that he should have consulted Chief Minister Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Shinde before making such claims.

Tensions between the two parties continue to grow as they navigate this contentious issue.