Vote Jihad Allegations Stir Maharashtra Politics

Sanjay Raut of Shiv Sena (UBT) criticizes the Maharashtra government under Eknath Shinde, dubbing the increased honorarium for madrassa teachers and election-related schemes as 'vote jihad'. The BJP refutes this, claiming their policies are non-discriminatory. Assembly elections are expected soon, intensifying political tensions.

Sanjay Raut, a prominent figure in Shiv Sena (UBT), launched a vehement critique against the Maharashtra government led by Eknath Shinde on Friday, accusing them of engaging in 'vote jihad'. The controversy centers on the announced increases in honorarium for madrassa educators alongside election-oriented schemes.

Raut questioned whether the initiatives, including the Mukhyamantri Ladki Bahin Yojana and the hike in the Maulana Azad Financial Corporation's working capital from Rs 700 crore to Rs 1,000 crore, were designed with electoral gains in sight.

In response, BJP leader Kirit Somaiya countered that the government does not discriminate based on religion in pivotal sectors like health and education. With assembly polls approaching next month, political narratives surrounding 'vote jihad' continue to dominate the discourse.

(With inputs from agencies.)