Mumbai, Jan 3 (NationPress) Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut sharply criticized the phenomenon of unopposed elections, particularly concerning Mahayuti candidates in the municipal elections across Maharashtra. He pointed out that even major leaders in this nation were never elected without opposition. "Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Barrister Nath Pai, Vasantdada Patil, Ram Manohar Lohia, and even Narendra Modi faced opposition during their elections," he stated. "However, a concerning trend has emerged in Maharashtra where methods such as 'Sama, Dana, Danda, Bheda' (persuasion, financial inducement, coercion, and division) are being utilized to secure unopposed wins," he added.

Raut emphasized that journalists and political analysts are aware of the unprecedented number of unopposed candidates, a phenomenon not just rare in India but historically unique worldwide.

He alleged that candidates were compelled to withdraw through the abuse of electoral machinery and by being "showered" with money. "Opponents were reportedly offered ₹5 crore each to step aside," he asserted.

Speaking about Kalyan, he noted that the amount offered to Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) city chief Manoj Gharat to withdraw was astonishing.

In Jalgaon, he claimed, "Bags containing ₹5 crore were delivered to candidates' homes to force their withdrawal. The sheer volume of money stunned the candidates. Such a grand display of wealth has never been witnessed in this democracy."

Raut alleged manipulation of election processes, stating, "Election officials received explicit instructions to accept withdrawal applications past the 3:00 PM deadline and backdate them." He called for an investigation into the communication records related to these instructions.

"Scrutinize the phone calls and records of all parties involved. Investigate who contacted whom in the last 24 hours, including which Guardian Minister or Minister made the calls. If this is pursued, the truth behind these unopposed withdrawals will come to light," he asserted.

He expressed grave concern about the state's reputation, stating, "These events have tarnished the image of Maharashtra. If 60 individuals are elected unopposed, what does that say about our elections? What options are left for voters?"

He questioned the Election Commission's role, asking, "Has this issue ever been addressed by the Election Commission? It has become a mere 'pet cat' for corrupt individuals."

In response to NCP chief and Deputy CM Ajit Pawar's harsh criticisms of BJP leaders in Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation, Raut claimed they exhibit a "monstrous greed" for personal enrichment through corrupt practices. He reminded the public of the origins of corruption claims against the Deputy CM.

Raut said, "We did not initiate the ₹70,000 crore irrigation scam allegations against Ajit Pawar. Those were brought forth by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a rally in Bhopal. Ironically, Ajit Pawar joined the Cabinet just eight days later. The BJP must clarify the status of those allegations."

He suggested that Ajit Pawar’s sudden change in rhetoric may indicate a looming political shift. Regarding the accusations about Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation, he commented, "It seems Ajit Pawar is searching for a new direction. If a sitting Deputy Chief Minister accuses his ally of looting the state and acquiring wealth through corrupt means, what should the public infer?"

Raut questioned Ajit Pawar’s continued presence in power despite these issues, suggesting he should return to his political roots. "If Ajit Pawar believes the BJP is so corrupt, why is he still part of the government? He should reconnect with Sharad Pawar. The NCP handed to him by Amit Shah is not the true NCP; the authentic NCP belongs to Sharad Pawar, and Ajit is aware of this," he concluded.