Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan has leveled serious allegations against the ruling NDA, claiming that recent splits within regional parties, including the reported division in Shiv Sena (UBT), are being orchestrated to increase the NDA's strength in the Lok Sabha. Speaking in his hometown Karad in Satara district on Wednesday night, Chavan asserted that the ultimate goal is to reach a 360-seat (two-thirds) majority, enabling the passage of major legislation like the women's reservation bill tied to delimitation.
Allegations of Deliberate Poaching
Chavan stated, "By increasing its strength in the Lok Sabha, Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led NDA government wants to ensure permanent dominance of north Indian states. The poaching of leaders will continue till NDA crosses 360 MPs. This is being done to get the delimitation bill passed." He accused the government of using the linkage between the women's reservation bill and delimitation as a strategic political tool.
Constitutional Concerns
"PM Modi has used this linkage as a political tool to alter the Constitution. At present, he depends on allies like Nitish Kumar and Chandrababu Naidu, but gradually this dependence will reduce," Chavan alleged. Calling the situation a "black day for democracy," he accused the government of attempting to weaken democratic institutions.
"Efforts are being made to end democracy and establish authoritarian rule. On one hand, large amounts of money are being pumped into politics, and on the other, there is constant pressure from central agencies like ED and CBI. Under such dual pressure, it becomes extremely difficult to engage in politics," the former CM said.
Corruption Allegations
Chavan also alleged corruption in political defections, claiming there are incentives like monetary gains, contracts, and commissions, sometimes up to 40%, used to lure politicians. "The only aim of the Modi-led government is to stay in power," he added.
Criticism of Modi's Record
Chavan criticized the BJP over its celebration of PM Modi becoming the longest-serving elected Prime Minister, surpassing Jawaharlal Nehru's record. "The economy is in poor shape. Inflation has risen sharply and there is no clear foreign policy direction. Nehru served for nearly 17 years, whereas Modi is more focused on self-promotion. People are aware that India's economic standing has slipped from fourth to sixth position globally, and inflation remains a serious concern," he said.
Local Political Support
Meanwhile, Chavan extended his support to a panel led by Avinash Mohite for the upcoming Krishna Sugar Factory election. Mohite's panel is contesting against the incumbent group headed by factory chairman Suresh Bhosale and his son, BJP MLA from Karad South, Atul Bhosale.
