Tue Nov 19 14:22:38 UTC 2024: ## BJP Leader Accused of Vote-Buying in Maharashtra Election
**Mumbai, India** – Political tensions soared in Maharashtra on the eve of the state elections after BJP general secretary Vinod Tawde was accused by the Bahujan Vikas Aghadi (BVA) of distributing cash to influence voters. BVA workers surrounded Tawde at a hotel in Virar, alleging that a bag in his possession contained a diary detailing the distribution of ₹15 crore (approximately $1.8 million USD).
BVA MLA Hitendra Thakur claimed Tawde arrived at the hotel with ₹5 crore in cash intended for vote-buying. Tawde vehemently denied the allegations, stating he was holding a meeting with BJP booth workers to explain post-election EVM sealing procedures and complaint filing with the Election Commission. He attributed the incident to a BVA conspiracy and offered to cooperate with any investigation.
The Election Commission, taking cognizance of the allegations of cash distribution in Nalasopara, has filed an FIR against Tawde and BJP candidate Rajan Naik under various sections of the Representation of the People Act.
The opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi coalition seized on the incident to attack the BJP. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray highlighted the contrast with his own experience, where his bag was searched by election officials without finding anything. AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi also commented on the situation on X.
Sanjay Raut, another opposition leader, suggested an internal BJP conflict, implying Tawde was set up by fellow party members. The BJP dismissed the allegations as baseless and politically motivated, with senior leaders like Sudhir Mungantiwar and Atul Bhatkhalkar characterizing them as absurd and a smear campaign. However, BVA leader Hitendra Thakur maintained his claims, stating the Election Commission had recovered a bag containing cash and a diary listing payouts.
The incident has added a significant layer of controversy to the already tense election atmosphere in Maharashtra. The Election Commission’s investigation will be crucial in determining the veracity of the allegations.
First Piper 