Solapur Votes: Shinde Clan Targets BJP's 'Arrogance' in Heated Maharashtra Polls

In Solapur, former Union Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde and MP Praniti Shinde cast votes in Maharashtra's local elections, criticizing BJP's alleged 'dirty politics'. Praniti Shinde claims the BJP misuses power, while Sushil Shinde calls for high voter turnout to uphold democracy amid accusations of arrogance and bias.

Former Union Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde, accompanied by his family, including Member of Parliament Praniti Shinde, participated in voting for the Maharashtra local body elections in Solapur on Thursday. Praniti Shinde sharply criticized the BJP, accusing it of employing 'dirty politics' buoyed by what she described as a 'first-time arrogance of power.'

Highlighting the Congress party's commitment to development, she condemned the BJP's alleged use of unethical tactics to attract votes. Emphasizing the choice before voters, she remarked, 'Our vote in Solapur Municipal Corporation should promote development.' She accused the BJP of engaging in violence and bribery, suggesting their inexperience with power leads to its misuse.

Expressing the electorate's discontent, Praniti Shinde predicted an electoral backlash, 'People are fed up with BJP's petty politics and will vote for change,' she asserted. Addressing allegations of Congress's misconduct, Shinde contended that law enforcement disproportionately targets Congress while favoring BJP members, calling for unbiased policing.

Sushil Kumar Shinde encouraged citizens to vote massively to preserve democratic values. He criticized the ruling BJP-led Mahayuti alliance, denouncing the 'arrogance and bullying' he believes threaten democracy, urging appropriate measures against these behaviors.

In Mumbai, polling for the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, India's wealthiest civic body, commenced with large turnouts as voters queued to elect 277 ward members after nearly eight years. A total of 1,700 candidates are contesting across 28 corporations in the state, with results expected on Friday, January 16.