Full Breakdown
Maratha Activist Accuses Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister of Rs 500 crore Payment; Both Sides Call for Probe
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Alleged Rs 500 crore Payment Claims
Maratha-quota activist Manoj Jarange-Patil released an audio clip in which a woman says the BJP paid INR500 crore to him through Shrikant Shinde, son of Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Jarange-Patil said the recording proved a conspiracy to “silence” his agitation for Maratha reservation ahead of the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly elections and urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to order an investigation.
Background to the Maratha Reservation Agitation
The Maratha community has long sought inclusion in Maharashtra’s reservation system. Jarange-Patil has led protests and hunger strikes, making the issue a political flashpoint in the state.
Official Statements & Responses
- Manoj Jarange-Patil demanded a probe, stating:
“Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde had asked for proof. This audio clip is the proof… I now request Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to launch an investigation.”
- Eknath Shinde denied any payment:
“I have neither given 500 crores to anyone nor taken it from anyone. He should have verified the facts before speaking.”
- Sanjay Shirsat, Shiv Sena minister, called for verification of the clip’s authenticity and suggested an inquiry into possible AI manipulation.
- Ramdas Kadam, Shiv Sena leader, warned that unverified claims could damage Shinde’s reputation and asked Jarange-Patil to name the individuals heard in the audio.
- Navnath Ban, BJP spokesperson, echoed the call for a home-department probe to determine whether the material is genuine.
On-the-Ground Reports
Jarange-Patil played the audio at a press conference in Jalna, describing it as evidence of a “conspiracy against Marathas.” He said the conversation occurred during a BJP Zoom meeting organized around the election campaign and alleged senior party figures discussed using the payment to turn him into a “beneficial third front.”
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- The Indian Express and Hindustan Times have not independently verified the clip.
- Shiv Sena officials highlighted the possibility of AI-generated content, noting the recording’s apparent age.
- Jarange-Patil says he possesses “all the evidence” but has not released the audio publicly beyond the press conference.
- Shinde has repeatedly asked for concrete proof before commenting further.
- No official timeline for an inquiry has been announced; the home department’s involvement remains pending.
What’s Next
Both the BJP and Shiv Sena say a formal investigation should be launched by the home department. Shinde indicated readiness for any inquiry, while Jarange-Patil said he would disclose additional proof “at the appropriate time.” No specific dates for hearings or reports have been set.