BJP MLA's funds threat video in village where he trailed in polls sparks controversy
Pune: Former cabinet minister and BJP MLA from Jalna, Babanrao Lonikar, sparked controversy when he allegedly threatened people of a village in his constituency, where he trailed during the assembly polls, with withholding funds.
A purported video of Lonikar surfaced on social media, showing him addressing a public meeting held in Borgaon village under Jalna's Partur constituency, represented by him in the assembly. The event was organised to inaugurate a concrete road constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana. According to the MLA, the road had cost Rs8 crore.
Addressing the villagers, Lonikar said, "Borgaon has traditionally supported BJP, but (in assembly) the votes got divided in the village. How could Babanrao trail in this village?"
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He said, "I got a road constructed of Rs8 crore for the village. At least now, the villagers should support me. Don't think that you will keep getting Rs5-10 crore funds if you do not vote for me."
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