Congress leader and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi’s visit to Parbhani, Maharashtra, has drawn sharp political reactions, with Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut leveling serious allegations against Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis over custodial deaths.
Addressing the media, Raut referenced the alleged custodial death of Somnath Suryavanshi, claiming, “Somnath Suryavanshi was murdered in police custody, and CM Devendra Fadnavis lied in the Assembly by stating that the police did not beat him up.” He further added, “Santosh Deshmukh was murdered in front of the people of Maharashtra.”
Raut emphasized that Rahul Gandhi’s visit to Parbhani was not only his constitutional right but also a moral obligation as a political leader to stand by those affected by such incidents. “Rahul Gandhi has a constitutional right to visit any place where such an incident has happened,” Raut stated, lending his support to the Congress MP’s outreach efforts.
Background on the Parbhani Visit
Gandhi’s visit to Parbhani comes in the wake of increasing scrutiny of the state government over allegations of police brutality and custodial deaths. The Congress leader is reportedly meeting with families affected by such incidents, further intensifying the focus on human rights and law enforcement accountability in Maharashtra.
Political Fallout
Raut’s allegations against Fadnavis have added fuel to the ongoing political battle between the ruling BJP-Shiv Sena alliance and the opposition bloc in Maharashtra. The opposition has repeatedly accused the state government of suppressing dissent and failing to ensure justice in cases of custodial deaths.
While Gandhi’s visit is seen as a show of solidarity, it has also reignited debates about the state’s governance and law enforcement practices. Political analysts suggest that the opposition may use this issue as a rallying point against the BJP-led government ahead of upcoming elections.
Response from the State Government
The BJP has yet to issue a formal statement on Raut’s accusations, but insiders indicate that the ruling party is likely to dismiss the claims as politically motivated. CM Fadnavis, who also serves as Maharashtra’s Home Minister, is expected to address the matter in the coming days.