Maharashtra BJP chief and state minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule on Monday criticized Congress MP and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi’s visit to violence-hit Parbhani, accusing him of making “silly statements” and provoking societal tensions.
“Rahul Gandhi came to Parbhani and left after giving silly statements,” Bawankule said in a strong rebuttal. “He has never worked in the government and does not understand the complexities of law and order. Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis has already taken all necessary steps regarding the incident, but Rahul Gandhi’s visit was nothing more than drama.”
Bawankule’s remarks come after Gandhi accused the state government and police of being complicit in the alleged custodial death of a Dalit man, Somnath Vyankat Suryawanshi, in Parbhani. During his visit, Gandhi called the incident “100% a murder” and alleged that the state’s ruling coalition, MahaYuti, and its ideology were responsible for Suryawanshi’s death.
Responding to these allegations, Bawankule defended the government’s actions, saying, “Our government is fully committed to addressing the incident and ensuring justice. The Chief Minister has already initiated appropriate measures.” He further accused Gandhi of attempting to stir unrest with his comments. “Rahul Gandhi provoked society. His visit was not about seeking justice but creating unnecessary drama.”
The BJP’s defense comes as the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi plans to escalate the matter with a breach of privilege motion against CM Fadnavis, accusing him of misleading the state legislature about the circumstances of Suryawanshi’s death.
Meanwhile, CM Fadnavis has reiterated that the government has launched two separate investigations into the incident and assured stringent action against those found guilty.