Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis addressed the recent police encounter involving the Badlapur sexual assault accused. He emphasized that while the police acted in self-defense, glorifying such incidents is not acceptable.
Fadnavis stated, “The police will not clap if shot at,” but clarified that the state does not encourage encounters. He stressed the importance of following the rule of law, ensuring that criminals are punished swiftly but fairly. The Deputy Chief Minister referred to the shooting as a self-defense act, as the accused had snatched a gun from an officer and opened fire.
Condemns Glorification of Incident
Fadnavis voiced his disapproval of celebratory hoardings in Mumbai that appeared after the encounter, showing him with a gun and the slogan “Badla Pura” (Revenge Complete). He stated that glorification of such incidents is wrong and assured that a thorough investigation would be conducted by the state CID.
BJP’s Confidence Ahead of Maharashtra Assembly Elections
As the Maharashtra Assembly elections draw near, Fadnavis confidently stated that the BJP will emerge as the largest party and lead the Mahayuti alliance to victory with a full majority.
BJP’s Standing in Maharashtra
Fadnavis reaffirmed that the BJP remains the number one party in Maharashtra and is poised to retain that status in the upcoming elections. He dismissed the idea of a rotational Chief Minister within the alliance.
Addressing Lok Sabha Election Results
When asked about the BJP’s performance in the recent Lok Sabha elections, Fadnavis rejected claims that the party had weakened. He pointed out that many seats were lost by narrow margins, emphasizing that the BJP has since gained ground and voter support. He attributed the earlier losses to a “fake narrative” by the opposition but assured that the party is now well-positioned for success.
Alliance with Ajit Pawar’s NCP
Fadnavis acknowledged initial discomfort among BJP supporters regarding the inclusion of Ajit Pawar’s NCP in the Mahayuti government due to past corruption allegations. However, he assured voters that the alliance is strong and has been accepted by the party base.
Fadnavis also responded to concerns raised by an RSS journal blaming the NCP for the Mahayuti’s performance in the Lok Sabha polls, noting that vote transfers from new partners like Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena and Ajit Pawar’s NCP had taken time to settle.
