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The arrest of self-proclaimed godman Ashok Kharat has sparked a fresh political storm in the state, with sharp exchanges between the ruling alliance and the Opposition. Amid the controversy, Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule has urged political leaders to speak responsibly and avoid speculative remarks.

Encounter fears raised

Congress Member of Parliament (MP) Praniti Shinde raised concerns that Kharat could be killed in an encounter, as the names of ruling party leaders might emerge during the probe.

Self-proclaimed godman Ashok Kharat. Pic/X/@genzdigest

Oppn with Congress MP

Sharad Pawar-led NCP MP Supriya Sule said Praniti Shinde is an experienced and knowledgeable leader, and if she has raised such concerns, it is likely based on some information.

‘Ruling party targeting allies’

Earlier, NCP MLA Rohit Pawar, grandnephew of Sharad Pawar, had alleged that the ruling party was deliberately bringing the Kharat issue to the forefront to damage the image of its allies’ leaders.

BJP leader and Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule. File Pic

BJP hits back

The BJP had earlier refuted Rohit Pawar’s allegations. Now, after Congress MP Praniti Shinde’s statement, senior BJP leader Chandrashekhar Bawankule suggested that those with any inputs or evidence should share the details with the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the case, rather than making such sensational statements. “Public representatives should speak with responsibility,” Bawankule said, replying to the Congress MP’s comment.

Oppn slams BJP over drug cases

Shiv Sena UBT leader Ambadas Danve claimed that in the Mahayuti regime, drugs are freely available, and related cases too are rising. Following the death of two youth from drug overdoses at a concert in Goregaon, the Opposition came down heavily on the BJP, as Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis heads the Home Department.

BJP refutes charges

BJP leader and Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule rejected the Opposition’s allegations, saying the reality is the opposite. He stated that under CM Fadnavis, stricter action is being taken against criminals, which is why more cases are now coming to light.