Nagpur: Congress legislature party member Vijay Wadettiwar on Monday accused the BJP of offering between ₹5 lakh and ₹15 lakh each to Congress corporators and councillors for cross-voting in the upcoming local self-government elections (MLC), triggering a fresh political confrontation in Maharashtra.
Wadettiwar's Allegations
Speaking to reporters in Nagpur, the Bramhapuri MLA alleged that large-scale financial inducements were being used to influence opposition elected representatives and manipulate election outcomes. He claimed some corporators and councillors had already received "token amounts" of ₹5 lakh, while rates for others had climbed as high as ₹15 lakh.
"Elections are now being fought with money power. Elected representatives are being lured with cash offers. If industrialists, contractors, and money decide who becomes a public representative, then how will democracy survive?" asked Wadettiwar.
Allegations of Political Destabilisation
The former Leader of Opposition further alleged that the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance was attempting to destabilise opposition parties through covert political operations. In a startling claim, he said more than 100 BJP corporators were in touch with Congress, though he added that final decisions would depend on "political circumstances and party strategy."
Wadettiwar also issued a stern warning to party corporators and councillors against cross-voting. He said the party would invoke provisions of the anti-defection law against any member violating the party whip during the elections.
Attack on Centre's Economic Policies
Wadettiwar linked the alleged political manoeuvring to broader public anger over inflation and fuel price hikes. Launching a sharp attack on the Centre, he blamed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for rising petrol and diesel prices, alleging that India's energy policy had become dependent on global geopolitical pressures.
"Crude oil prices have fallen internationally, but fuel prices in India continue to rise. In the last 10 days alone, fuel prices have risen by ₹7.5. This is a direct assault on the common man," he said.
Referring to India's reduced oil purchases from Iran and Russia, Wadettiwar alleged the country was "bowing to American pressure," forcing citizens to bear the burden of flawed economic decisions.
Farmers' Distress Ignored
He also accused the government of neglecting farmers facing distress over cotton, onion, and paddy prices. "Farmers are collapsing financially while the PM remains busy distributing 'Melody' chocolates instead of addressing inflation and farm distress," he remarked.
Key Points from Wadettiwar's Statement
- BJP offered ₹5 lakh each to Congress corporators and councillors for cross-voting.
- Some were allegedly being offered up to ₹15 lakh.
- Warned of strict anti-defection action against cross-voting members.
- Over 100 BJP corporators are in contact with Congress.
- Mahayuti constituents using money power to influence local body elections.
- Fuel price hikes and inflation linked to the Centre's economic policies.
- Farmers ignored amid rising agricultural distress.
