Tue Nov 12 08:24:50 UTC 2024: ## Congress’s “Dog” Remarks Fuel Political Fire in Maharashtra Ahead of Elections

**Mumbai:** The BJP has slammed Maharashtra Congress chief Nana Patole for his alleged “dog” remarks targeting BJP leaders, calling it a sign of the Congress’s growing frustration ahead of the state Assembly elections. BJP leaders claim that the remarks demonstrate the opposition’s desperation as polls suggest a strong lead for the ruling Mahayuti alliance.

Patole, during a campaign rally in Akola, allegedly questioned if OBC voters would support the BJP, referring to them as “dogs.” The BJP has interpreted these comments as an attempt to blame the party for disrespecting the OBC community, escalating the political rivalry between the ruling Mahayuti and the opposition MVA coalition.

BJP leader Kirit Somaiya highlighted the Congress’s recent verbal attacks, including Sharad Pawar’s criticism and Uddhav Thackeray’s accusations against the Election Commission. “They are going from disappointment to dejection,” Somaiya stated, claiming that the “kutta” remark was fueled by the Congress’s fear of losing the elections.

BJP national spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari further condemned Patole’s comment, attributing it to Congress’s “Emergency” mindset. He accused the party of seeking to silence opposition by resorting to legal threats, claiming that this approach undermines the freedom of speech guaranteed by the Indian Constitution.

Bhandari also pointed out the recent use of the term “kaala” (black) by Karnataka Congress leader Zameer Ahmed against a political rival, describing it as a racist remark. He believes that these incidents reflect the Congress’s growing frustration and desperation in the face of impending electoral defeat.

The upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections, scheduled for November 2023, are poised to be a fierce contest between the ruling Mahayuti alliance (Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, BJP, and Ajit Pawar-led NCP) and the opposition MVA coalition (Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and NCP (SP)). The latest controversy over Patole’s remarks is sure to further heat up the political landscape in the state.

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