Operation Lotus: An Assault on Democracy, Says Nana Patole

India, celebrated as the world’s largest democracy, now finds its democratic fabric under siege. Congress state president Nana Patole has accused the BJP of systematically undermining democratic institutions through “Operation Lotus,” an effort he claims is fueled by illicitly acquired money and aimed at consolidating power by dismantling opposition forces.

Addressing the media in Nagpur, Patole stated that the current Maharashtra government does not reflect the people’s mandate from the assembly elections. He expressed public apprehensions about potential vote tampering, citing how 7.6 million votes were allegedly added overnight without explanation. Patole labeled this as “nothing short of the murder of democracy” and criticized the Election Commission for its silence on the matter. He further warned that if satisfactory answers are not provided, the Congress would escalate the issue to the Supreme Court.

Patole also highlighted growing demands for the use of paper ballots in elections, pointing to gram sabhas voicing their distrust in the current electronic voting system. He asserted that such actions by the BJP suggest a desire to render opposition obsolete, raising concerns about the erosion of democratic principles at both state and national levels.

As the BJP-led alliance government convenes its first assembly session in Nagpur, Patole underscored the pressing issues facing Maharashtra’s citizens. From soaring inflation and unemployment to recruitment delays and farmer suicides, he stressed the need for urgent action. He demanded a ₹3 lakh blanket loan waiver for farmers and a clear timeline for pending recruitments. Patole criticized the government’s decision to limit the session to just five days, calling for at least a month-long session to address these critical issues comprehensively.

Responding to queries about internal disputes within the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) over the Leader of the Opposition post, Patole dismissed such claims. He affirmed that leaders from all three alliance parties would collectively decide on the matter, with an official announcement expected soon. He also noted that the Congress high command has been entrusted with appointing the Congress Legislature Party leader and group leader, and a decision is imminent.

Through his sharp criticism, Patole painted a picture of a democracy at risk, urging immediate accountability and action to safeguard the nation’s democratic institutions.