Nana Patole rejects Urban Naxal allegations against Bharat Jodo Yatra

Nagpur: Maharashtra Congress chief Nana Patole on Friday dismissed Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis's claims linking Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Yatra to urban naxal groups as baseless and politically motivated. Speaking at Vidhan Bhavan during the winter session, Patole said, "The BJP is trying to defame a movement that has garnered immense public support. These allegations are an attempt to divert attention from the real issues plaguing the state."

Chief minister Fadnavis, on Thursday, alleged that over 40 organizations with urban naxal ties participated in the Bharat Jodo Yatra. "These groups, known for their anti-national ideologies, were given a platform during the Yatra. The state government will investigate their involvement and take strict action," Fadnavis said during the assembly session.

Patole challenged Fadnavis to substantiate his claims with evidence. "If the Chief Minister has proof, he should present it to the public. Otherwise, these are just empty statements aimed at spreading misinformation," Patole said. He added that the Congress is committed to addressing public grievances through peaceful and democratic means, unlike the BJP, which "thrives on creating divisions and distractions."

The allegations have further escalated the political rivalry between the BJP and Congress. While the BJP accuses Congress of harboring anti-national elements, the latter insists that the Yatra is a unifying force aimed at resolving pressing issues like unemployment, inflation, and social unrest.

Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India. Don't miss daily games like Crossword, Sudoku, and Mini Crossword.