‘Murder of democracy’: Raj Thackeray targets BJP over ‘Rs 500 cr payment’ audio clip
MNS chief Raj Thackeray has accused the BJP of undermining democracy by allegedly using religious polarization and media pressure to divert attention from political scandals. The controversy centers on a viral audio clip involving claims of a Rs 500 crore payment to activist Manoj Jarange.
Why it matters
The allegations highlight deep-seated political tensions in Maharashtra ahead of the 2024 assembly elections, raising concerns about the integrity of political discourse and media independence.
NEW DELHI: Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray on Friday accused the BJP of "murdering" democracy by allegedly exerting pressure on the media and using religious polarisation to divert public attention. The barb came after an audio clip triggered a political row over claims of a Rs 500 crore payment to Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange.In a post on X, Thackeray said the 29-minute recording, which has gone viral in Maharashtra, allegedly featured BJP office-bearers, a senior Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) functionary and social media influencers discussing political strategies, media pressure and ways to divert attention from sensitive issues by fuelling religious polarisation.“The chief minister has tried to buy time by saying he’s called for a forensic report on the audio clip, making a show of justice,” Thackeray said, referring to Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis's announcement of a forensic examination.“But if you actually listen to the conversation in…
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