Congress Leader Challenges Fadnavis’ Authority Amid Vote Theft Claims

In Maharashtra, Congress President Harshwardhan Sapkal has called into question the moral authority of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to remain in office. This assertion follows allegations made by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi regarding “vote theft” in the Rajura assembly constituency, located in the Chandrapur district. Sapkal claims that manipulation affecting approximately 6,850 votes has been confirmed, echoing concerns about the integrity of the electoral process in the state.

The situation escalated when the state police, operating under the home department led by Fadnavis, registered a First Information Report (FIR) related to these allegations. During a press conference held in Thane, Sapkal stated, “The theft of over 6,000 votes in Rajura, now confirmed by an FIR filed by CM Fadnavis’ own police, proves that the Mahayuti alliance has no moral right to remain in power.” He emphasized the necessity for Fadnavis to resign, asserting, “The BJP captured power with the Election Commission’s help by stealing votes.”

Concerns Over Electoral Integrity

Accusing the Election Commission of demonstrating double standards, Sapkal criticized Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, suggesting he has begun to resemble a political figure rather than an impartial overseer of elections. “By subverting democracy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP want to make India like Nepal or Sri Lanka,” he added, underscoring his view that the current political environment threatens the democratic foundations of the country.

Addressing recent reforms to the Goods and Services Tax (GST), Sapkal characterized these changes as a victory for Rahul Gandhi’s foresight, noting, “Rahul Gandhi had demanded GST reforms eight years ago, and the government is implementing those changes today.” To celebrate this achievement, the Congress party plans to distribute sweets to traders across Maharashtra on September 22.

Support for Farmers and Cultural Identity

In addition to electoral concerns, Sapkal voiced strong support for farmers affected by heavy rains, demanding Rs 50,000 per hectare in compensation for crop losses and Rs 5 lakh per hectare for farmland erosion. He also called for free seeds and fertilizers for the upcoming rabi season, alongside farm loan waivers to support struggling agricultural communities.

Furthermore, Sapkal criticized the state government for its efforts to impose a third language in schools, stating, “Marathi is not just a language but our cultural identity. By thrusting another language, Fadnavis is stabbing Marathi in the back.” He warned that the party would resist any attempts to undermine the cultural diversity that defines India.

As the political landscape in Maharashtra continues to evolve, the Congress party’s challenge to Fadnavis’ leadership reflects broader concerns about electoral integrity, agricultural support, and cultural identity in the region.