Bhandara: Congress leader Nana Patole launched a strong attack on the RSS, the Maharashtra government and the arrangements surrounding Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ event in Pune while speaking to the media in Bhandara. Patole raised several political and social issues, targeting both the central and state governments with sharp allegations.
“Action Against RSS Is Being Discussed in the US; Allegation Over Ram Temple”
Nana Patole directly targeted the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), referring to developments in the United States and making serious allegations against the organization. He claimed that the United States had taken a position against the RSS by declaring it a terrorist organization.
Speaking about the Ram Temple, Patole said, “The Ram Temple is a place of faith for us. The RSS has a hand in looting and robbing that temple.”
Patole also raised questions about the financial activities associated with the RSS. Claiming that the organization has financial transactions in several countries, he questioned the source of the money and called for transparency and auditing of such funds.
However, there is no independent official confirmation that the United States has formally designated the RSS as a terrorist organization. Recent reports have referred to calls by officials associated with the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) for restrictions concerning the RSS. Therefore, Patole’s statement should be understood as his allegation.
“A Large Crowd Will Attend Rahul Gandhi’s Event; Government Must Make Security Arrangements”
Nana Patole also targeted the Devendra Fadnavis government over Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ event scheduled in Pune on August 22.
Although Pune Police have granted permission for the event, 30 conditions have reportedly been imposed. These include restrictions related to objectionable banners or images, protection of religious sentiments, security arrangements, entry and exit points, parking and the use of drones.
Against this backdrop, Patole said that Pune is an important educational city where students from across the country come to study. He claimed that a large number of students and citizens would attend Rahul Gandhi’s event and urged the government to make adequate security arrangements.
He also demanded that the restrictive conditions imposed on the event be withdrawn.
“The Country Is Moving Towards Dictatorship”
Patole also criticized the policies of the central and state governments while discussing Rahul Gandhi’s Pune event. He alleged that attempts were being made to place restrictions on programs organized by the opposition.
He urged the government to adopt a sensitive approach toward the concerns of students, farmers and ordinary citizens.
The ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ campaign focuses on issues concerning students, with the Pune event expected to address subjects including equality, safety and opportunities for young women.
“What Is the Use of Giving Students ₹2,000 If Women Are Not Safe?”
Nana Patole also targeted the state government over the proposed scheme to provide ₹2,000 per month to female students.
“If women are not safe in Maharashtra, then what is the use of giving female students ₹2,000 every month?” he asked.
Patole claimed that the government does not have sufficient funds for several pending issues, including bonuses for paddy farmers and loan waivers. He also pointed to vacant government posts and shortages of teachers affecting schools.
Accusing the government of focusing more on announcements than implementation, Patole said that women’s safety and basic public issues should receive greater priority.
“Fast-Track the Case Involving the Minor Girl in Bhandara”
While discussing women’s safety, Patole referred to the alleged sexual assault case involving a minor girl in Bhandara city.
He demanded that the case be heard through a fast-track process and that strict action be taken against the accused. Alleging that crimes against women are increasing in the state, Patole questioned the response of the Chief Minister and the state government.
He further questioned the effectiveness of financial assistance schemes if women continue to feel unsafe in the state.
Patole Attacks Government Over “Announcement Politics”
Linking the issues of paddy bonuses, loan waivers, government recruitment, teacher shortages and women’s safety, Nana Patole strongly criticized the functioning of the state government.
He alleged that several basic issues remain unresolved because of financial constraints and said the government should focus on implementation rather than making announcements.
During his interaction with the media in Bhandara, Nana Patole targeted the government on several fronts — from the RSS and Rahul Gandhi’s Pune event to women’s safety and the state’s financial policies.