BJP, Shiv Sena UBT trade charges over alleged fake audio clip

The political row escalated Tuesday as the BJP alleged that Sanjay Raut, a senior Shiv Sena (UBT) leader, orchestrated the release of a purportedly fake audio recording to undermine the ruling coalition in Maharashtra. The disputed clip reportedly involves discussion of a ₹500 crore payout related to activist Manoj Jarange, who has been leading an agitation over Maratha reservation issues.

BJP representatives claimed the fabricated recording was part of a broader strategy to advance Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's political interests and sow discord within the alliance government. The party suggested the timing and content of the leak were designed to create maximum political damage ahead of important political developments.

Shiv Sena (UBT) countered the allegations, asserting that a BJP MLC was responsible for releasing the audio clip into the public domain. Party representatives maintained that the opposition was attempting to deflect blame and distract from substantive governance issues.

The controversy highlights mounting tensions within Maharashtra's political landscape, where the three-party coalition government of Shiv Sena (UBT), Congress, and NCP faces pressure from the opposition BJP. The dispute over the audio recording's authenticity and origin underscores the volatile nature of state politics ahead of potential electoral contests.