Pune: Congress Candidate Dhangekar Alleges Money Distribution, BJP Files Complaint With Police Commissioner
Reported by Mubarak Ansari & Tikam Shekhawat
Pune, 12th May 2024: Allegations of money distribution by the BJP within the jurisdiction of Sahakar Nagar Police Station have sparked controversy, with Congress candidate Ravindra Dhangekar accusing the ruling party of undermining democracy.
Expressing frustration over the alleged inaction of the police, Dhangekar staged a sit-in protest at Sahakarnagar Police Station on Sunday. He was joined by several members and activists of the Mahavikas Aghadi.
According to Dhangekar, the BJP has been distributing significant sums of money in slum areas and other localities ahead of the polls. Despite lodging complaints with the police, no action has been taken against the perpetrators.
“The BJP is attempting to sway the election in their favor through illicit means,” Dhangekar declared during the protest. “We have provided the police with names and evidence of those involved in distributing money, yet no action has been initiated. We refuse to stay silent in the face of this assault on democracy.”
#Pune: #BJP and #Congress workers raise slogans against each other outside Sahakarnagar police station
Congress candidate Ravindra Dhangekar is staging a sit-in protest after alleging money distribution by the BJP in the slum areas.#PuneElections#LokSabhaElections2024 pic.twitter.com/at14ZEFtXQ
— Punekar News (@punekarnews) May 12, 2024
After the sit-in protest by Dhangekar, the BJP, led by its city president Dheeraj Ghate, met with Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar and submitted a complaint. “Dhangekar is attempting to sow confusion among voters after the campaign period has concluded. This is a tactic to exert pressure on the police. The police should investigate Congress leaders staying near Navle bridge and distributing ornaments,” Ghate stated in his complaint. MLA Madhuri Misal was also present on the occasion.
#Pune: BJP MLA Madhuri Misal appeals to Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar to handle the 'political drama' surrounding Congress candidate Ravindra Dhangekar's allegations of money distribution by the BJP in slum areas. pic.twitter.com/YksXWO25c4
— Punekar News (@punekarnews) May 12, 2024
Pune Police Commissioner, Amitesh Kumar, stated, “There is a complaint at Sahakarnagar police station regarding alleged money distribution. While we have acknowledged the complaint, no case was registered due to insufficient evidence.
A candidate has been demanding the filing of a case, but without evidence, we cannot proceed with registration. Their protest is underway.
A delegation from the BJP met with us, and we have provided them with clarification.
Extensive arrangements have been implemented across Pune city. Section 144 is in effect, and individuals gathering unlawfully will face legal action.”
