The Maharashtra BJP on Monday accused the Congress leadership of threatening Youth Congress workers to ensure their participation in a protest against Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar in Delhi. The Congress dismissed the charge, alleging that it reflected the ruling party’s insecurity over the prospect of losing power.
BJP releases purported audio clip
Releasing a purported audio clip of Maharashtra Youth Congress in-charge Ajay Chikara, BJP state chief spokesperson Navnath Ban alleged that Youth Congress office-bearers had been warned they could lose their positions and election tickets if they failed to reach the national capital by Monday.
Speaking to reporters, Ban claimed Chikara’s voice could be heard instructing Youth Congress office-bearers to reach Delhi. He alleged that the clip showed the Congress pressuring its own workers to participate in a demonstration aimed at reviving Rahul Gandhi’s leadership.
Opposition parties have announced plans to march to the Supreme Court on Monday, demanding an end to alleged “vote chori” and the resignation of the CEC.
BJP links allegation to MPSC protest
Ban also linked the alleged threats to Congress leader Vishwajeet Kadam’s departure from the agitation by Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) aspirants in Pune.
He claimed Kadam had left the protest midway and travelled to Delhi on Sunday because of pressure to participate in the demonstration against the CEC.
The BJP spokesperson demanded that Rahul Gandhi clarify whether Congress workers were being coerced into joining protests. He also accused the party of practising the same authoritarianism it alleges exists in the country.
Vijay Wadettiwar hits back
Senior Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar rejected the BJP’s allegations, claiming that the ruling party was making such accusations because it feared losing power.
“The BJP is scared that the sand under its feet is being washed away. They are scared to lose power. Opposition parties are voicing people’s outcry, and we will lead them to justice. Such trivial allegations are best ignored,” the former minister said.
The opposition parties have announced a march to the Supreme Court on Monday to demand an end to “vote chori” and the resignation of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC).
(With inputs from PTI)
