Eknath Shinde announces probe as BJP MLC claims Sharad Pawar plotted Maratha unrest with Jarange-Patil

BJP MLC Pravin Darekar also demands Manoj Jarange-Patil’s arrest over his remarks about Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

Manoj Jarange Patil's rally from Antarwali Sarati in the Jalna district of Maharashtra to Mumbai for the demand of Maratha reservation reached Pune on January 24, 2024 evening via Nagar Road. (Express Photo)

After Maharashtra BJP MLC Pravin Darekar demanded Manoj Jarange-Patil’s arrest over his remarks about Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and claimed that Sharad Pawar had conspired with the Maratha reservation activist to create unrest, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Tuesday announced an inquiry.

“The SIT (special investigation team) will be formed and it will conduct its probe and all the things will be revealed,” Shinde said in the state legislature.

Alleging that NCP chief Sharad Pawar was behind Patil’s agitation, Darekar claimed that a conspiracy was hatched in Congress MLA Rajesh Tope’s factory and that NCP MLA Rohit Pawar was also involved in it.

“This conspiracy behind stone-pelting (in Antarwali Sarati village during Patil’s hunger strike last year) took place at Rajesh Tope’s factory. Rohit Pawar himself was there along with Rajesh Tope. All these should be investigated by the SIT. Sangeeta Wankhede (a former associate of Patil) has said that Patil was receiving calls from Sharad Pawar,” the BJP legislator said.

Darekar also raised questions about expenses incurred in Patil’s rallies. If Union minister Narayan Rane can be arrested just because he said he might have slapped the chief minister, why is Manoj Jarange Patil not arrested yet, he asked.

As members of the Maha Vikas Aghadi, including Leader of the Opposition Ambadas Danve and NCP-Sharadchandra Pawar MLC Shashikant Shinde, objected to Darekar’s comments and ruling MLCs got into arguments with them, a ruckus ensued and Deputy Chairperson Neelam Gorhe adjourned the House for a few minutes.

On Sunday, Patil allegedly used derogatory language against Fadnavis and alleged that the BJP leader was trying to eliminate him. Patil said he would march to Mumbai and protest outside Fadnavis’s official residence.

Vallabh Ozarkar

Vallabh Ozarkar is a Senior Correspondent with The Indian Express' Mumbai bureau, recognized as an authoritative and deeply knowledgeable voice on the politics, governance, and infrastructure of Maharashtra. With approximately seven years of experience in major news organizations, his reporting delivers high standards of Expertise and Trustworthiness. Expertise & Authority Current Role: Senior Correspondent, The Indian Express, Mumbai bureau. Geographical Specialization: Provides exclusive and detailed coverage of Maharashtra politics and governance, operating at the epicenter of the state's decision-making in Mumbai. Core Authority: His reporting demonstrates deep Expertise across critical and often complex state matters, including: Political Dynamics: In-depth analysis of the ruling coalition (Mahayuti) and opposition (MVA), internal party conflicts, and crucial election updates, including local body polls and municipal corporation tussles. Governance & Policy: Focused coverage on significant state policies, such as the overhaul of Mumbai's 'pagdi system' (rent control for old buildings) and social welfare schemes (e.g., Ladki Bahin Yojana accountability). Infrastructure & Development: Reports on major urban and regional infrastructure projects, including the Mumbai Water Metro, Uttan-Virar Sea Link, and Thane Metro development. Administrative Oversight: Follows legislative actions, cabinet decisions, and reports on issues of accountability and alleged fraud within state departments. Experience Current Role: His role at The Indian Express—a leading national daily—validates the credibility and standard of his reporting. Career Foundation: Prior to The Indian Express, Vallabh contributed to other major metropolitan news outlets, including the Mumbai Mirror and DNA - Daily News & Analysis, providing a solid foundation in rigorous urban and political journalism. Evidence of Impact: His work consistently breaks down complex political developments and administrative failures, such as exposing discrepancies in government welfare schemes, cementing his reputation as a trusted source for ground-level, impactful news from Maharashtra. He tweets @Ozarkarvallabh ... Read More

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