"You Have Clothes Because Of Us...": BJP Leader Gives A Controversial Statement

Maharashtra BJP MLA Babanrao Lonikar recently made headlines with his controversial comments. During a 'Har Ghar Solar' scheme event in Partur, Jalna district, he claimed that critics of his party benefit from government schemes. He mentioned items like clothes, shoes, and mobile phones as examples of these benefits.

A video capturing Lonikar's remarks circulated on social media, sparking backlash from opposition parties. He emphasised the development work and welfare initiatives led by the BJP government, while criticising those who oppose his party.

Opposition's Response

Ambadas Danve, Shiv Sena (UBT) MLC and Leader of Opposition in the Legislative Council, criticised Lonikar's statements. Danve likened him to an "indigenous version of the British" for his remarks. He stressed that such language is inappropriate in a democratic setting.

Danve further highlighted that Lonikar's position as an MLA is due to public support. "Your clothes, shoes, air tickets, leadership position, diesel in (your) car is also because of the people," Danve wrote on X while criticising the ruling party lawmaker.

Lonikar's Claims

In his speech, Lonikar mentioned various government initiatives benefiting citizens. He cited overhead water tanks, concrete roads, and function halls as examples of development work in villages. Additionally, he referenced monetary benefits like salaries for mothers and pensions for fathers of critics.

The MLA also credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for providing Rs 6,000 to farmers under the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme. He claimed that sisters benefit from the Ladki Bahin Yojana.

Political Implications

The controversy surrounding Lonikar's remarks comes at a time when local body elections are approaching in Maharashtra. Danve urged people to remember Lonikar's words during the upcoming elections.