Fri Nov 08 20:12:00 UTC 2024: ## Maharashtra Minister Denies Joining BJP Due to ED Pressure
**Nasik, November 9, 2024:** Maharashtra Minister Chhagan Bhujbal has vehemently denied allegations that he joined the BJP-led alliance due to pressure from the Enforcement Directorate (ED). Bhujbal, speaking to reporters in Nasik today, also refuted claims that he was targeted because of his status as an OBC leader.
The controversy arose after media reports surfaced regarding a book that allegedly contained admissions by Bhujbal about his decision to join the BJP alliance.
“I haven’t read the book yet, but I will review it with my lawyers and take appropriate legal action if any false claims are made,” Bhujbal stated.
He maintained that his decision to join the NCP-Ajit Pawar faction, along with 54 other MLAs, was purely motivated by the desire to advance the interests of Maharashtra.
“We joined for the sake of development, and my constituents are pleased with the work done in my area,” he asserted. Bhujbal also denied writing any book or giving interviews related to the matter.
He further emphasized that he is not afraid of facing legal repercussions and has received a clean chit in the Maharashtra Sadan case during his tenure under the Uddhav Thackeray government.
Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar also dismissed the reports and reiterated that the decision to join the BJP alliance was solely based on development priorities.
Bhujbal’s statement comes as a direct response to the controversy sparked by the book’s alleged revelations. His denial and insistence on legal action highlight the seriousness of the matter and the potential for a legal battle over the book’s contents.
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