Mumbai, Oct 24 (NationPress) As Maharashtra gears up for local and civic body elections, Revenue Minister and former BJP state chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule stirred controversy by asserting that all mobile phones and WhatsApp accounts are under surveillance. He made these comments during a BJP event on October 23.

Following a backlash from Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut, who called for his arrest, Minister Bawankule clarified on Friday that the party oversees one lakh WhatsApp groups of BJP booth chiefs linked to the party’s war room, essential for internal communication.

“During a meeting with our BJP workers, I mentioned this setup. The activities of our workers, their comments, and reactions on WhatsApp are all reviewed from our war room. This system ensures that everyone's contribution is acknowledged during the elections, focusing on initiatives introduced by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis for the state's progress,” explained Minister Bawankule. He emphasized that party workers are aware of this mechanism, which aims to disseminate government welfare schemes effectively.

Previously, Raut demanded legal action against Bawankule, questioning the legitimacy of his claims. “What equipment did Bawankule use? Did he install it at the BJP office, or hire private individuals?” Raut queried during his statements to the media.

Minister Bawankule maintained that the party merely monitors the activities of BJP booth chiefs through WhatsApp groups. “We gauge our party's stance based on comments from these groups, mitigating negativity and fostering positivity, thereby enhancing communication between party members. Who is Sanjay Raut to dictate our internal processes?” he challenged.

Bawankule elaborated that the party's system is vital during elections, as both positive and negative information circulates. “Our setup, comprising one lakh groups of workers and officials, is designed to address public expectations and concerns,” he stated.

On the collaborative efforts of the MahaYuti alliance for the forthcoming local and civic polls, he remarked, “Our primary focus is on the grand alliance, with district committees formed to ensure harmony among candidates.”

“Despite the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance, we expect the Mahayuti to secure 51 percent of the votes across Zilla Parishads and Municipal Corporations, outperforming our previous assembly results. The Maha Vikas Aghadi won’t claim a single Zilla Parishad or Municipality,” Bawankule asserted.

He also noted that numerous Congress members are eager to join the BJP, citing trust in Devendra Fadnavis’ leadership. “Congress struggles with effective communication, sidelining capable leaders and creating a disconnect with grassroots workers. In contrast, BJP workers can easily connect with senior leaders,” he added.

Bawankule mentioned that Mahayuti members have been advised to avoid internal conflicts, stating, “Some individuals attack leaders from allied parties due to personal issues, mistaking Mahayuti leaders as adversaries. We must recognize our real opponents and adhere to the alliance's code of conduct.”