Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut launched a sharp attack on the State Election Commission (SEC) this Wednesday. He accused the commission of permitting door-to-door campaigning even after the official campaign period concluded on Tuesday evening. Raut expressed strong disapproval of this decision, calling it a violation of established election norms in Maharashtra.
Allegations of Money Distribution and Rule Violations
Raut made serious allegations against the ruling parties. He claimed that money was being distributed illegally through door-to-door visits. According to him, this distribution took the form of sarees, newspapers, and various packets. He stated that this activity continued despite the formal end of the campaign period.
"The campaign has ended, but the SEC has given a different gift to the ruling parties of Maharashtra," Raut said. "Even after the campaign period ended, they can still campaign door to door. Once the campaign ends, it ends. This was the convention. But suddenly, the SEC has made this announcement."
Criticism of SEC's New Rule
Raut directly linked the SEC's new allowance to these alleged activities. He argued that the commission's decision facilitated what he termed 'Laxmi Darshan' for the ruling coalition. He insisted that the distribution program would continue throughout Wednesday, benefiting those with financial resources.
"Candidates can go door to door. Money is being distributed through sarees and newspapers and packets. So to facilitate this, the SEC announced the new rule. Those who distribute money are being helped," Raut asserted.
Political Accusations and Broader Context
The MP did not mince words when discussing the ruling parties' strategies. He claimed that the BJP and Shinde Sena could not secure victory without resorting to certain tactics. Raut alleged they relied on stoking Hindu-Muslim sentiments, misusing state machinery, and deploying money power.
"BJP and Shinde Sena cannot win the election without stoking Hindu-Muslim sentiments and without money and misuse of state machinery and power," he stated firmly.
Raut further emphasized that these parties lacked a solid ideology. He mentioned that Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray had instructed their supporters to confront anyone distributing money. He portrayed the SEC's Wednesday allowance as a designated day for the ruling party's financial activities.
References to Other Leaders' Statements
Raut also brought up statements made by Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. He referenced Pawar's comments about money generation through government files. Raut suggested this was a common practice among several ministers, including Eknath Shinde and Devendra Fadnavis.
He questioned the inaction of the SEC and the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB). "What is SEC and Anti Corruption Bureau (ACB) doing?" Raut asked pointedly.
Raut called for transparency from Ajit Pawar and Ganesh Naik. He urged them to publicly disclose any information they possessed about alleged corruption. He warned against veiled threats and blackmail, insisting on open communication.
SEC's Stance and Opposition Backlash
The State Election Commission has implemented some restrictions despite allowing door-to-door campaigning. It has prohibited the use of loudspeakers and large group gatherings during these visits. However, the commission permits limited personal campaigning after the public campaign period ends.
Other opposition parties have joined Raut in criticizing the SEC's decision. They argue that this relaxation weakens existing restrictions. They believe it allows candidates to continue personal campaigning despite the formal conclusion of public canvassing. This collective opposition highlights growing concerns about the integrity of the upcoming Municipal Corporation elections scheduled for January 15.
The controversy underscores the tense political atmosphere in Maharashtra. Allegations of rule violations and financial misconduct dominate the discourse as election day approaches. All eyes remain on how the SEC will address these complaints and ensure a fair electoral process.
