Controversial Distribution of Margin Funds in Maharashtra

The Maharashtra cooperation department has revised the list of margin fund beneficiaries, dropping cooperative sugar mills associated with opposition leaders and adding those linked to ruling BJP and NCP politicians. This decision has drawn criticism from opposition parties, claiming it as an attempt to secure political allegiance.

The Maharashtra cooperation department has made a significant revision in its margin fund beneficiaries list, favoring cooperative sugar mills associated with ruling BJP and NCP politicians over those linked to opposition leaders.

Post-Lok Sabha election results, a cabinet meeting saw the removal of five mills tied to opposition figures from the Rs. 487 crore fund allocation, replacing them with mills connected to the ruling Mahayuti alliance.

Opposition parties have criticized this move, interpreting it as a strategy to entice their leaders to align with the ruling coalition. The National Cooperative Development Corporation will disburse the funds through the Maharashtra government.

(With inputs from agencies.)