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Maharashtra drought relief and political controversy

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2026-10-24 14:26 UTC → 2026-10-26 05:22 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The Maharashtra government has initiated relief efforts for farmers affected by drought, though these measures have faced significant political scrutiny. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced interim financial aid of 5,000 rupees per farmer to be distributed before Diwali. This amount was criticized by Congress MP Balwant Wankhede, who described the sum as a “mockery” of the farmers' struggles, noting it fails to compensate for lost crops and capital. Internal tensions within the ruling alliance have also emerged following allegations by Maratha reservation activist Manoj Jarange Patil. An audio clip released by Patil ~~alleging a controversial Rs 500~~ allegedly claims that ₹500 crore ~~transaction led to accusations between~~ was routed through Shiv Sena ~~and BJP leaders. In response,~~ MP Shrikant Shinde to influence or suppress the Maratha reservation agitation ahead of the 2024 state assembly elections. Shrikant Shinde has denied the allegations, questioning the logistics of transporting such a massive amount of cash, while Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde ~~directed party members to prioritize aiding drought-hit farmers through grain kits and administrative support rather than engaging in political recriminations.~~ has also denied involvement. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut has called for an investigation by the Enforcement Directorate. In response, Chief Minister Fadnavis has ordered a forensic examination of the audio clip to verify its ~~authenticity.~~ authenticity, while Jarange Patil has maintained the recording is real and called for a high-level probe.

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