Maharashtra BJP MLA stirs controversy with remarks on critics

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Jun 26 (PTI) In a series of controversial remarks, Maharashtra BJP MLA Babanrao Lonikar made a bold statement to a gathering, asserting that individuals who criticize his party and government should remember that they are benefiting from various provisions thanks to his party's efforts. These provisions include clothes, shoes, mobile phones, monetary benefits from schemes, and funds for sowing.

Addressing a function dedicated to the 'Har Ghar Solar' scheme in his assembly constituency of Partur, situated in the Jalna district of central Maharashtra, the former state minister took the opportunity to underscore the welfare schemes and developmental initiatives led by the BJP government while expressing disdain for the party’s detractors.

A video capturing Lonikar's contentious statements began circulating on social media on Thursday, prompting significant backlash from the opposition. Even Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, a member of the BJP, voiced his disapproval of the remarks.

"There are individuals, particularly the youth, who critique our party on social media platforms. We have provided overhead water tanks, concrete roads, function halls, and the benefits of various government schemes in your village," Lonikar is heard exclaiming in the video.

"Babanrao Lonikar ensured salaries for the mothers of those who criticize us while sanctioning pensions for their fathers. Prime Minister Narendra Modi allocated Rs 6,000 to your father for sowing, referencing the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi. Your sister benefits from the Ladki Bahin Yojana. The clothes, shoes, and mobile phones that BJP critics possess are thanks to us," continued the MLA in the video.

Chief Minister Fadnavis strongly disapproved of his party colleague's remarks, labeling them as "absolutely wrong.""Even though his comments were directed at certain people, no one has the right to speak such things. PM Modi says 'I am Pradhan Sevak' (principal servant). If we are sevak of people, we can't be their master. Lonikar's comments are absolutely wrong and he will be cautioned," the CM asserted.

Shiv Sena (UBT) MLC and Leader of Opposition in the Legislative Council, Ambadas Danve, criticized Lonikar for his insensitive comments, referring to him as an "indigenous version of the British." Danve noted that such language is unacceptable in a democracy.

"Your MLA status is because of the people. Your clothes, shoes, air tickets, leadership position, diesel in your car are also because of the people," Danve remarked on X while taking a jab at the ruling party lawmaker.

He further cautioned people to remember Lonikar’s words, highlighting that elections for local bodies in the state are approaching.

(Only the headline of this report may have been reworked by Editorji; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)