Wed Nov 20 09:18:00 UTC 2024: ## Maharashtra Election Campaign Marred by Bitcoin Scam Allegations
**Mumbai, November 20, 2024** – The ongoing Maharashtra Assembly elections have been overshadowed by a major controversy involving allegations of a Bitcoin scam linked to prominent political figures. Former IPS officer Ravindranath Patil has accused NCP (SP) leader and Member of Parliament Supriya Sule, along with Maharashtra Congress President Nana Patole, of involvement in a 2018 cryptocurrency fraud, allegedly using the funds for election financing.
The BJP has seized on these accusations, releasing an audio clip purportedly containing evidence of Sule and Patole’s involvement. However, Sule has vehemently denied the authenticity of the audio clip and filed a formal complaint with Pune’s Election Commission and Cyber Cell, demanding action against those spreading false and defamatory information. The accusations involve the alleged misuse of Bitcoins for election fund distribution.
The controversy further involves allegations that two individuals impersonated former IPS officers Gaurav Mehta and Ravindranath Patil to spread false information.
Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, while acknowledging having heard the audio clip, stated that while he recognizes the voices, a full investigation is necessary. NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar condemned the BJP’s actions, questioning their ethics and pointing out Patil’s past imprisonment.
Maharashtra’s 288-member Assembly elections concluded today with vote counting scheduled for November 23rd. The allegations are expected to significantly impact the election’s outcome.
First Piper 