Tue Nov 19 15:38:19 UTC 2024: ## Cash Scandal Rocks Maharashtra Election Eve
**Virar, Maharashtra:** A cash scandal erupted on the eve of the Maharashtra Assembly elections, plunging the state’s political landscape into turmoil. A BJP candidate faces charges of distributing money, while BJP General Secretary Vinod Tawde is accused of violating the model code of conduct.
The incident unfolded at a Virar hotel where a large sum of cash was allegedly being distributed. Bahujan Vikas Aghadi (BVA) MLA Kshitij Thakur and his workers alleged that ₹5 crore was being distributed by Tawde. While the BJP and Tawde claim the money was unrelated to the elections and that they were simply briefing party workers, the BVA’s accusations have sparked outrage.
Adding to the confusion, after making the initial allegations, BVA president Hitendra Thakur, his son Kshitij Thakur, and Tawde appeared together at a press conference. The Election Commission intervened and stopped the press conference, but the three men later left the hotel together. Kshitij Thakur subsequently held a separate press conference, raising questions about the selective searches conducted by authorities.
Police seized ₹19 lakh from two hotel rooms, which they claim was evidence of a cash distribution operation. Kshitij Thakur questioned why women’s purses were not checked during the raid and accused Tawde of being in Virar covertly to distribute cash.
Uddhav Thackeray, leader of the opposition, targeted Tawde, stating that the BJP is “distributing money and winning”. The Election Commission has appealed for an impartial investigation into the matter. The incident raises serious questions about the integrity of the electoral process just hours before the polls.
First Piper 