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Opposition bays for Joshi's blood

The battle between Maharashtra Chief Minister Manohar Joshi and Chhagan Bhujbal, leader of the Opposition in the legislative council, has progressed to the second phase, with the latter alleging that the chief minister's son and son-in-law are on a real estate buying-spree all across the state. Bhujbal has demanded Joshi's resignation.

Joshi, for his part, said Bhujbal's allegations are without a grain of truth, and challenged him to prove them.

Bhujbal had launched his offensive against the chief minister and his relatives while initiating a discussion in the House on Maharashtra's failing fiscal situation. He said firm action needed to be taken on the growing financial irregularities.

In a venomous attack, he asked what could be expected of ministers when the head of the state himself, in connivance with his kith and kin, is purchasing real estate all over Maharashtra.

The Opposition leader alleged that Joshi has been buying real estate under the names of his son and son-in-law. "He has no authority to remain in office for even a single minute," he said.

Producing a photograph of Kohinoor Samudra, a beach resort started by the chief minister's partner Kokane, Bhujbal alleged that the Maharashtra state tourism department purchased the plot from the villagers of Badhye and sold it to Kokane for a paltry Rs 35 million.

Bhujbal also alleged that a Dadar businessmen, Mara, has close relations with the chief minister's son-in-law Shailesh Wagh. He demanded an explanation on how Mara, who once sold lottery tickets in Dadar, has suddenly become a millionaire.

Compiled from the Marathi media by Prasanna Zore

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