Not Right to Assume Elected Leaders Switch Sides for Money, Says BJP MLA Bawankule

BJP leader Chandrashekhar Bawankule responded to statements by Shiv Sena UBT MP Sanjay Raut suggesting that MLAs and MPs change parties for financial incentives. Speaking to media, Bawankule said such assumptions are unfounded, noting that elected representatives may have multiple reasons for switching allegiances.

The remarks come amid Operation Tiger, a reported effort by the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction to persuade Shiv Sena UBT members to defect. Unconfirmed reports suggest around seven UBT members may switch parties, though no official confirmation has been provided.

Congress leader Nana Patole separately attacked the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling the operation a display of hunger for power rather than legitimate political activity.