Political Tempers Flare Ahead of Maharashtra Elections

As Maharashtra Assembly elections approach, Congress leader Sachin Pilot criticizes BJP for religious vote tactics, calling for focus on real issues like employment and inflation. Meanwhile, ECI scrutiny of Uddhav Thackeray's bag sparks controversy, with Congress leaders supporting him against alleged electoral bias.

In the tense lead-up to Maharashtra's assembly elections, Congress figurehead Sachin Pilot launched a fiery critique against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday, accusing them of capitalizing on religious sentiments for votes. Pilot emphasized that the public favors the issues championed by the Maha Vikas Aghadi coalition, which anticipates forming a government after the elections.

Pilot decried the BJP's alleged fear-mongering tactics, urging discussions on pressing matters such as education, unemployment, and inflation to replace religious rhetoric. His remarks reflect the enthusiasm and positive response his campaign has garnered across the state.

Simultaneously, a fresh controversy erupted when the Election Commission of India (ECI) scrutinized the luggage of Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray upon his helicopter's arrival at the Yamatwal assembly constituency. This incident prompted former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot to critique the targeting of a political leader, questioning whether similar checks would be conducted on BJP's Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other political figures.

Gehlot stood by Thackeray, stating, "If they are checking, they should inspect everyone. There's no problem then. But to target a party leader is wrong." The upcoming elections set for November 20 will see the Maha Vikas Aghadi coalition challenge the Mahayuti alliance led by BJP and its allies. The stakes are high as vote counting approaches on November 23.

(With inputs from agencies.)