Latest news with #HarshwardhanSapkal
Time of India
a day ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Unity in Calamity: Assembly poll defeat is the glue, says Maha Cong prez Sapkal
Nagpur: Maharashtra Congress president Harshwardhan Sapkal stated that factionalism within the party is a closed chapter and the cadre and leadership are united ahead of the crucial local body polls. During a visit to the TOI office on Monday, Sapkal stated, "There is unity in calamity," highlighting that the 2024 assembly poll debacle brought everyone on the same page as it was a question of survival. Sapkal added that Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) delegated powers to district-level units on local body poll alliances, and therefore there won't be a uniform statewide alliance formula. Following the massive defeat in last year's polls, where Congress bagged just 16 seats, various factions now recognise the wisdom of joining hands. Sapkal responded to a specific question on infighting within the Nagpur unit, stating, "We recently organised a Sadbhavna rally in Nagpur, which was led by Vikas Thakre. Sunil Kedar delivered a speech there and even Nitin Raut was present. So, everyone is together and working for the party. There are differences in every party, even BJP has that." Regarding his role in uniting the party, Sapkal stated, "I played a minor part. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Seniors Born 1939-1969 Receive 11 Benefits This Month If They Ask Super Saving Online Undo I think the assembly poll defeat served as a glue. Also, I am a non-controversial neta and enjoy good relations with everyone. This helps in getting your point across to different people in the party." Sapkal said, adding state-rung leaders should have done more during the 2024 campaign. As Maharashtra prepares for upcoming local body polls, the primary question concerns alliances. Sapkal stated, "We have already delegated power to local units to decide on tie-ups. This means that there could be an alliance in Mumbai and not in Nagpur. Local units are the best judge of the political equation and grassroots necessity." Media reports abound about a proposed alliance between Shiv Sena (UBT) and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), as both Uddhav and Raj Thackeray have not denied it yet. If the two-cousins join hands, Sapkal stated it would not impact Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA). He added, "MVA was formed to ensure BJP is kept out of power. Hence the objective of keeping BJP at bay remains the same, so another party coming into the MVA fold does not matter. " Sapkal outlined a blueprint for rejuvenating the party in Maharashtra. He stated, "We are receiving reports from observers and are filling posts at all levels. There will be fresh appointments to block-level based on interviews. The focus is to usher a change from the grassroots." Regarding Lok Sabha leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi's allegations of rigged polls in Maharashtra, Sapkal stated, "Election Commission of India must provide details of voters who came to the booths during the last one hour. We requested CCTV footage so that voters and their identities can be verified." Sapkal mentioned they are preparing for the 'mashaal rally' in Gadchiroli on June 12. He said, "The rally is being held to raise questions on social, political and agrarian issues."
Time of India
a day ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Local train accident: Congress slams govt, demands Railway Minister Vaishnaw's resignation
Maharashtra Congress State chief Harshwardhan Sapkal on Monday demanded the resignation of Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for the local train accident in which four people lost their lives in Thane district. The Congress leader also demanded a compensation of Rs 25 lakh for the families of the deceased. At least four commuters, including a GRP constable, died, and six were injured after falling off a moving and overcrowded local train during the office rush hour on Monday morning. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like War Thunder - Register now for free and play against over 75 Million real Players War Thunder Play Now Undo Talking to reporters in Nagpur, Sapkal claimed that the Central and state governments were responsible for the local train accident. He accused the railway minister of being ignorant about improving facilities and demanded his resignation. Live Events In a post on X, Sapkal condoled the deaths and said for the last 11 years, the people of Maharashtra and Mumbai have been listening to empty talk about infrastructure and ease of travel for Mumbaikars. He said in the name of providing facilities and development, Maharashtra is witnessing a game of awarding tenders and taking commissions. Citizens have had to pay the price for this corruption with their lives, Sapkal said. The government should wake up, stop organising events and take immediate steps to ensure Mumbaikars do not lose their lives in local train travel, he said.
Time of India
27-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Congress demands Rs20,000/acre for rain-hit farmers
Nagpur: The Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee on Tuesday called on the state govt to provide immediate relief of Rs20,000 per acre and Rs50,000 per hectare to farmers whose crops were destroyed by heavy rain across the state. Speaking to the media in Mumbai, MPCC chief Harshwardhan Sapkal said, "The first spell of rain has already revealed cracks in the BJP, Shinde, and Ajit Pawar govt while there is corruption right till the Mantralaya level. The Mahayuti govt must not get caught in formalities like 'panchanamas' and start providing real relief to farmers in distress." Sapkal, who also demanded that the govt provide free seeds and fertilisers for the upcoming Kharif season, said the Congress has always stood by farmers during crises — be it crop diseases, locust invasions, hailstorms or floods. "The current govt only makes hollow assurances while farmers suffer," he said, adding that even loan waivers were not announced so far. The MPCC chief also targeted Union home minister Amit Shah, claiming he did not utter a word about the rain damage during his recent two-day visit to Maharashtra. "During the election campaign, Shah promised two free gas cylinders, loan waivers for farmers, and Rs2,100 per month for women, but now he has forgotten everything," Sapkal said adding, "Before leaving for Delhi, at least announce the farm loan waiver, because the state govt only listens to you. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch CFD với công nghệ và tốc độ tốt hơn IC Markets Đăng ký Undo " The heavy rain has exposed the poor quality of state's infrastructure, said Sapkal. "Nullhas have burst, highlighting NCP's corruption, while flooding in Mumbai shows the Shinde faction's incompetence. Despite spending crores, waterlogging has paralysed Mumbai again." He slammed the underground Metro project, calling it a 'stubborn and forced' scheme that harmed the city's environment and failed to deliver results. "The so-called development agenda has crumbled in one rain. The BJP and Shiv Sena have been controlling Mumbai's civic body for 25 years, and Eknath Shinde was the urban development minister all this while. What have they done?" Sapkal asked and added, "Stop the blame game and work for the people."
Hans India
17-05-2025
- Politics
- Hans India
BJP, Cong welcome govt move
New Delhi: The NDA government's planned diplomatic initiative of sending multi-party MP delegations to major world capitals to expose Pakistan's role in the recent Pahalgam terror attack and to rally global support against cross-border terrorism has won support from both the ruling BJP and the Opposition Congress. Leaders from both parties praised the move, describing it as a constructive step toward strengthening India's global position and countering Pakistan's narrative. BJP leader Gourav Vallabh said the initiative reflects national unity in the face of terrorism. "This is a very good initiative by the Prime Minister, involving all political parties. A delegation comprising MPs from across party lines will visit various countries to highlight how Pakistan-sponsored terrorists targeted people in Pahalgam based on their religion. When India's political voices speak together on an international platform, it will help form a unified global front against terrorism. It will strengthen India's position globally and enhance our leadership in diplomacy, business, and international affairs," he said. Maharashtra Congress chief Harshwardhan Sapkal also welcomed the government's plan but urged greater transparency. "We support the international efforts taken by the government. However, the government should also inform citizens about which countries the Prime Minister has visited over the last 11 years and whom he has met. Additionally, it should be clarified how many nations have publicly supported India's position," he said. According to sources, the planned delegations will serve a dual purpose — briefing foreign governments on the facts surrounding the Pahalgam attack, in which 26 civilians were killed, and providing clarity on 'Operation Sindoor'. The operation, officials maintain, targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan-occupied territories and did not harm civilians. The move is seen as a direct response to growing efforts by Pakistan to internationalise the Kashmir issue. It also comes in the wake of past remarks by US President Donald Trump, who had suggested mediation on Kashmir - a proposition India firmly rejected, maintaining it is a bilateral issue.
Time of India
15-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Congress questions ceasefire timing, to take out rally
Nagpur: Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) president Harshwardhan Sapkal on Wednesday accused the BJP-led coalition govt of being apathetic towards farmers reeling under severe losses due to unseasonal May rains and demanded immediate relief measures. "The govt is sleeping while farmers are facing an unprecedented crisis. Conduct a panchnama of losses and provide compensation without delay," he told the media. Sapkal criticised the cancellation of the ₹1 crop insurance scheme , calling the replacement policy ineffective and against farmers. "The earlier scheme at least offered some compensation. Now, even after allegations of a scam, there's no accountability or corrective action," he said, demanding that the original ₹1 scheme be reinstated. With the kharif season nearing, Sapkal alleged that the state agriculture department was unprepared. "Bogus seeds are flooding the market, and linking of fertilisers with seed purchases continues unchecked. The govt merely announces action but does nothing on the ground," he said. He condemned the diversion of funds from the social justice and tribal development departments to welfare schemes like Ladki Bahin. "It is unconstitutional and unjust to divert resources meant for Dalits, tribals, and OBCs. If the state is facing a financial crunch, the BJP should seek a special package from the Centre," said Sapkal, urging CM Devendra Fadnavis, and deputy CMs Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar to take immediate steps. Commenting on the ceasefire following Operation Sindoor, Sapkal questioned the Modi govt's silence. "Why was a ceasefire declared just when our soldiers were gaining an upper hand? Did the US mediate? Has the Shimla Agreement been scrapped? The PM must answer. He didn't even attend the all-party meeting. A special session of Parliament must be convened," he demanded. To commemorate the martyrdom of Rajiv Gandhi and honour bravery of Indian soldiers, Sapkal announced that the Congress will organise a Tiranga Yatra in every district of Maharashtra on May 21. "From Mahatma Gandhi to the martyrs of Pahalgam, we owe our respect to those who sacrificed for the country," he said. Commenting on his meeting with NCP founder Sharad Pawar, Sapkal clarified that it was a goodwill visit. "This was my first meeting with Pawar Saheb since taking over. His five decades of experience is invaluable," he said.
