Pune: A video showing gangster Gajanan Marne greeting state higher and technical education minister Chandrakant Patil during a Dahi Handi event has gone viral, triggering accusations from the opposition that the Mahayuti govt was extending patronage to criminals. The clip is believed to be from an event held in Kothrud. Marne, along with his wife, is seen felicitating the minister in the clip.
“Patil represents Kothrud in the assembly. Marne is from the area. Elected representatives are for common people.
But in the Mahayuti govt, it appears they are for the goons,” leader of the opposition in assembly Vijay Wadettiwar said. State Congress chief Nana Patole said, “Under Mahayuti govt, goons and mafia have got protection. Some have been taken out of jail on parole to help Mahayuti win polls.
” TOI tried to contact Patil for his comment, but he did not respond to calls. This is not the first time Marne is seen with politicians. Before LS polls, Ajit Pawar’s son Parth visited his home.
After the results were out, MP Nilesh Lanke from Ahmednagar visited Marne’s house. During the Nag Panchami festival, BJP MLC Ram Shinde’s clip with gangster Nilesh Ghaywal in Ahmednagar went viral. Citizens said politicians’ proximity with gangsters “puts law and order at risk”.
Civic activist Sanjay Shitole said, “Society is heading towards lawlessness. A time will come when there will be no control over criminals.” Senior citizen Dattatray Salunkhe from Kothrud said, “Wh.