Protecting Democracy and Voters’ Rights
Mumbai : To protest electoral irregularities and safeguard democracy, the Congress party will organize a statewide agitation on National Voter’s Day (January 25) at district and taluka levels. Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee President Nana Patole announced the move at a press conference at Tilak Bhavan, highlighting concerns over the Election Commission’s credibility and alleged electoral fraud during Assembly elections.
Patole questioned how 50 lakh voters were added within six months of the Lok Sabha elections and how 76 lakh votes increased after 5 PM on election day. Despite repeated requests, the Election Commission has failed to provide evidence, allegedly due to a law passed by the BJP-led central government to restrict such disclosures.
Fake Encounters and Police Accountability
Patole condemned the fake encounter of Akshay Shinde in Badlapur, now confirmed by the High Court, and demanded action against the responsible police officers and ministry officials. Similarly, the death of Somnath Suryawanshi in police custody during a combing operation in Parbhani highlights the misuse of power. Patole accused CM Devendra Fadnavis of misleading the Assembly by falsely claiming Suryawanshi’s death was due to asthma.
Mafia Activities in Beed
Patole criticized the government’s failure to control mafia activities in Beed, where rampant crime and corruption flourish under alleged ministerial protection. He cited the brutal murder of sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh as a glaring example of the worsening law-and-order situation.
Guardian Minister Controversy
The ongoing dispute over guardian minister appointments reflects the government’s internal discord. The creation of co-guardian minister positions serves personal interests rather than public welfare, Patole alleged.
Crop Insurance Scam
Patole also exposed a ₹350 crore crop insurance scam in Beed, where claims were fraudulently made for barren lands. While insurance companies and officials profited, farmers were left without compensation, marking a severe betrayal of their rights.
Congress will continue to fight against these issues and work to protect the rights of citizens, Patole assured.