Wed Nov 20 19:58:25 UTC 2024: ## BJP Accuses Maharashtra Opposition Leaders of Bitcoin Election Funding Scam Amidst State Polls

**Mumbai, India –** As Maharashtra heads to the polls, the BJP has launched a scathing attack against opposition leaders, accusing them of using illegal Bitcoin transactions to fund their election campaigns. BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra alleged that Supriya Sule and Nana Patole, key figures in the opposition, are implicated in a scheme involving approximately Rs 235 crore. Patra linked the allegations to a 2018 cryptocurrency fraud and the arrest of former IPS officer Ravindranath Patil, who claims he was framed after assisting in the investigation.

Patra presented audio recordings as evidence, claiming they implicate Sule and Patole. He also criticized Congress leaders Sonia and Rahul Gandhi, demanding a response. Sule vehemently denied the allegations, calling the evidence fabricated and reporting the matter to the Election Commission and Maharashtra Police. She accused the BJP of spreading misinformation to influence the election.

The controversy centers around cryptocurrency trader Gaurav Mehta, who allegedly came forward fearing for his safety after assisting opposition leaders in converting Bitcoins to cash. Mehta reportedly provided evidence to the authorities, including the disputed audio recordings.

Former IPS officer Patil, while also claiming to be a victim of a conspiracy, confirmed that he had requested an Election Commission investigation into the matter. He stated his involvement with the 2018 case, and his subsequent arrest for allegedly defrauding investigators.

The allegations have intensified the already heated political climate in Maharashtra as voting continues. The opposition has dismissed the claims as a politically motivated smear campaign aimed at derailing their election prospects. The Election Commission is yet to comment officially on the matter.

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