Modi Poised for Third Term as PM, Shiv Sena MP Calls for End to ED 'Experiments'

Shiv Sena Lok Sabha MP Gajanan Kirtikar on Friday expressed his confidence in Narendra Modi's potential to secure a third consecutive term as Prime Minister, attributing it to Modi's performance. However, Kirtikar voiced concerns over the Enforcement Directorate's (ED) actions, particularly regarding his son, Amol Kirtikar. Amol, aligned with the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena UBT and a candidate for the upcoming polls, is allegedly being targeted by the ED in what has been dubbed the 'khichdi scam'. This case involves the distribution of khichdi to the impoverished during the Covid-19 pandemic, with Amol implicated in the supply chain operations.

Gajanan Kirtikar defended his son's involvement, stating that Amol was not a business partner but was assisting Sanjay Mashelkar, a Shiv Sena secretary who secured the distribution contract. According to Kirtikar, any profits were legitimately shared with Amol through cheques, and all income tax obligations were met. He emphasized that amidst the pandemic's challenges, swift decisions and securing vendors were crucial steps taken in public interest. Despite these assertions, Kirtikar criticized the ED's continued scrutiny of his son as unwarranted "experiments".

Kirtikar also commented on political dynamics, critiquing what he perceives as overconfidence within the BJP's ranks, symbolized by their 'ab ki baar, 400 paar' slogan. He underscored the importance of respecting NDA partners like the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena and Ramdas Athawale's RPIA in decision-making processes. Highlighting the necessity of opposition for a functional Parliament, Kirtikar's remarks reflect broader concerns about political collaboration and governance.

In response to Kirtikar's statements, Mumbai BJP chief Ashish Shelar disagreed with the criticism of ED actions. Shelar suggested that grievances should be addressed within party forums or through legal channels rather than public declarations. This exchange underscores ongoing tensions within Maharashtra's political landscape, especially concerning law enforcement's role in political matters.

The controversy stems from an FIR lodged by Mumbai Police's Economic Offences Wing, pointing to alleged irregularities in civic contracts for khichdi distribution during the pandemic. The ED's interrogation of Amol Kirtikar for eight hours on Monday adds another layer to this unfolding narrative, highlighting the intersection of politics, governance, and law enforcement in India.