Addressing the growing political controversy surrounding an alleged audio clip mentioning 500 crore rupees, Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange demanded a complete and transparent investigation into the matter. Speaking from Pune, he emphasized that personal credibility and reputation far outweigh temporary political alliances or power arrangements. Jarange asserted that if the truth comes out, no one should attempt to shield those responsible, urging state leadership to get to the bottom of the conspiracy if Eknath Shinde has no involvement in it.
Demands for Investigation by State Leadership
Jarange called upon Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to order an in-depth inquiry into the origin of the recording. He noted that his initial assessment suggests Devendra Fadnavis might not be directly aware of the plot, pointing out that an undisclosed entity or organization could be orchestrating the move behind the scenes to defame the movement. However, he warned that if the state leadership continuously dismisses the controversy as mere falsehoods without conducting a proper probe, the public will naturally conclude that Devendra Fadnavis himself orchestrated it.
Rejection of Complex Financial Claims
Dismissing allegations and claims linking him to intricate financial discussions, Jarange called the statements entirely absurd. He rejected assertions that he possessed technical expertise on international economics, global trade, port development, or financial crises in the United States and China. Jarange stressed that such complex political jargon is completely alien to him, accusing political opponents of attempting to put sophisticated phrasing into his mouth that he would never use in his public discourse.
Warning Against Scapegoating and Upcoming Showdown
Criticizing statements made by political figures, including a ruling party BJP spokesperson, Jarange urged leaders not to make activists or the community scapegoats to cover up internal wrongdoings. He reminded the political leadership that the Maratha community empowered them through their votes. Reaffirming his stance, Jarange stated that failure to conduct a fair and thorough investigation would result in a direct confrontation on September 29. This follows earlier friction surrounding his planned Mumbai march, for which police permissions were previously denied.
