Rahul Narwekar orders SIT probe into conspiracy allegations over Jarange's remarks

Rahul Narwekar/ Pic: Ashish Raje

Maharashtra Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar has asked the administration to launch a Special Investigation Team (SIT) investigation into contentious allegations made by Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange against Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. The assembly session was briefly adjourned as ruling alliance members cited Jarange's words, suggesting a conspiracy to stir instability in the state.

Jarange, speaking at Antarwali Sarati village, accused Fadnavis of wanting to kill him and promised to protest outside the Deputy Chief Minister's residence in Mumbai. He also claimed that he was poisoned with saline, but provided no further specifics, reported PTI.

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According to the report, BJP member Ashish Shelar raised the subject in the Lower House, denouncing aggressive language intended to incite violence and questioning the masterminds behind Jarange's conduct. Speaker Narwekar directed the government to conduct a comprehensive investigation through the SIT.

Shelar, as per the PTI report, said, "We have been supporting Jarange's demands but are critical of his threatening remarks against Fadnavis."

While expressing no personal issues against Jarange, Deputy Chief Minister Fadnavis said that the masterminds behind his words will be identified soon. He was quoted in the PTI report as saying, "Jarange may have made wild allegations against me, but the entire Maratha community supports me. Will find out who is the mastermind. Burning down of MLAs' homes is also not right. A probe will enable to find out who are the real culprits."

Meanwhile, the Leader of Opposition in the Assembly, Vijay Wadettiwar, emphasised the necessity of addressing the underlying source of the problem and demanded action against individuals who make offensive remarks.

Congress Legislature Party leader Balasaheb Thorat also highlighted the lack of opposition participation in conversations between the government and Jarange, requesting a better grasp of the situation.

Jarange, meanwhile, ended his 17-day fast over the Maratha quota issue but continued to campaign for Kunbi caste certificates. The state assembly recently enacted a measure guaranteeing 10 per cent reservation for the Maratha community, but Jarange insisted on OBC category designation for Marathas and will continue his fast until his demands are granted, reported PTI.