The departure of former chief minister Ashok Chavan, who joined the BJP on Tuesday, was downplayed by Maharashtra Congress president Nana Patole, who said it will not affect the party in any way.
Maha Vikas Aghadi and the Congress are the people’s people. It doesn’t matter if a leader steps down, according to Patole.
Additionally, the leader of Congress emphasised that there is now more popular support for the party.
The Maharashtra BJP is terrified. For this reason, they are attempting little things, but the public’s empathy for Congress has grown as a result. I believe there will be more seats in Congress,” he stated.
In a subdued tone, Patole poked fun at Chavan regarding the Adarsh society scam, while other Congress leaders were restrained in their remarks.
“Two days back, the (central) government came out with a White Paper on the UPA Government. Adarsh Scam was specifically mentioned by the PM. Everyone knows who is involved in Adarsh Scam,” Patole added.
The Adarsh Society scam entails claims of inconsistencies in the distribution of apartments intended for veterans and widows of war, as well as the building itself, which was purportedly constructed in contravention of numerous laws and ordinances. Chavan was charged of allowing the Adarsh building’s increased floor space index (FSI) in exchange for his relatives receiving apartments. The amount of space that can be built on a specific piece of land is measured by the FSI.
According to the allegations, some of the recipients who purchased flats in the Adarsh Housing Society at discounted prices or through dubious ways included Chavan’s relatives. There were also claims that Chavan’s relatives were given flats in the building despite not meeting the requirements for the flats.
Under the Congress-NCP coalition, the 65-year-old led the state as its chief minister for three years, from December 2008 to November 2010. Ashok Chavan is a powerful figure in Nanded and several areas of Marathwada. Of the 48 Lok Sabha MPs in Maharashtra, eight are sent by the area.
“I had warned him that there (in the BJP), his condition would not be good. He has always held leadership positions here, but he won’t have that chance elsewhere.I invited him to return today,” Patole remarked.
Maharashtra Congress in-charge Ramesh Chennithala played down the possible impact of Chavan’s resignation when questioned, citing the strength of the Maha Vikas Aghadi coalition.
“There won’t be any events. Maha Vikas Aghadi is a formidable force. Congress is an extremely strong body. There won’t be any events.”
“He has a name, but the Congress party gave it to him. Ashok Chavan was receiving backing from the Congress party. We will tackle this as a team as all of the workers and leaders are united. We intend to secure the most seats possible in the Assembly and Parliament.
