Nanded drought review meeting sparks controversy over serving snacks

A drought review meeting held in Nanded, Maharashtra, has sparked political controversy after a video surfaced showing cashews and almonds being served to officials and representatives during discussions on crop loss. The meeting, attended by Agriculture Minister Dattatray Bharne and MP Sanjay Jadhav, was intended to address the severe agricultural crisis in the Marathwada region caused by a lack of rainfall.

Farmers expressed outrage, with some in Hingoli protesting against Minister Bharne by presenting plates of cashews and almonds to symbolize the perceived insensitivity of the administration. Critics and opposition members argued that the display of luxury snacks was inappropriate given the desperation of farmers facing total crop failure.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that the administration must remain sensitive to local circumstances and avoid such arrangements in such meetings. MP Sanjay Jadhav defended the presence of the snacks, noting they were simply placed on the table, and suggested the controversy distracts from actual farmer issues. Meanwhile, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Shirsat attributed the responsibility for the catering to administrative officials rather than the political representatives.