Sanjay Raut supports Rahul Gandhi's article, stating that the Election Commission, not the BJP, should answer the questions raised. He also took a jibe at Fadnavis and reiterated allegations of electoral fraud.
Maharashtra Politics: The verbal battle in Maharashtra's political landscape has intensified through articles. Following Rahul Gandhi's publication of an article alleging rigging in the Maharashtra Assembly elections, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut has responded. He stated that Rahul Gandhi's article, read across the nation, necessitates a response from the Election Commission, not the BJP.
Rahul Gandhi Levels Serious Allegations
Rahul Gandhi described the November 2024 Maharashtra Assembly elections as "match-fixing," characterizing it as a serious threat to democracy. His article highlighted issues such as irregularities in voter lists, the sudden addition of 6 million new voters, and the Election Commission's panel changes as key concerns. He argued these actions rendered the election unfair.
'Even if Fadnavis writes the Gita, it won't make a difference' - Sanjay Raut
Sanjay Raut stated he hadn't read Devendra Fadnavis's article but emphasized that Rahul Gandhi's article had reached the general public. He sarcastically remarked, "Whether Fadnavis writes an article or even the Gita, it won't make a difference. Nobody reads him anymore." He believes the questions raised by Rahul Gandhi are constitutionally significant and should be answered solely by the Election Commission.
Questions for the Election Commission Should Be Answered by the Election Commission
Raut asserted that the Election Commission is the primary target of Rahul Gandhi's allegations, rendering Fadnavis's intervention unnecessary. He suggested that the BJP's response to these accusations indicates the seriousness of the matter and an attempt to conceal something.
'BJP and their gang stole the election' - Raut
Sanjay Raut explicitly accused the hijacking of the Maharashtra elections. He alleged that the BJP, along with its allies Shinde and Ajit Pawar's coalition government, desecrated the electoral process. He questioned, "If we could win so many seats in the Lok Sabha, how did the BJP gain a majority within months?" He implied a predetermined outcome rather than a fair election.
Rahul Gandhi Has the Right to Ask Questions
Raut supported Rahul Gandhi, emphasizing his position as the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, a constitutional post. He asserted Gandhi's right to question institutions and the public. He stated, "This is a democracy, and questioning isn't a crime but a right."
Conversely, Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, responded to Rahul Gandhi's accusations with an article of his own. He claimed the opposition's allegations are baseless and detrimental to the dignity of democracy. Fadnavis cited the Supreme Court and the Election Commission, asserting the impartiality of these institutions and suggesting the opposition is merely seeking excuses for their electoral defeat.
