Raut suggests that funds gathered by the charity organization linked to the son of Maharashtra's Chief Minister may have been diverted for political advantages.
Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut has raised concerns about the financial activities of a charity organization managed by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's son and MP Shrikant Shinde. Raut questioned the transparency of the funds and suggested that they might have been misused for political purposes. He mentioned writing to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and State Home Minister Devendra Fadnavis regarding the issue and hinted at the possibility of involving investigative agencies like the Enforcement Directorate (ED) or Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
Raut alleged that despite seeking information under the Right to Information Act, details about the source of funds and expenses of the Shrikant Shinde Foundation were not disclosed by the Maharashtra Charity Commissioner's office, possibly due to political pressure. He claimed that around Rs 550 crore had been routed through the organization and potentially misused.
On the other hand, the Shiv Sena, led by Eknath Shinde, defended the Foundation, emphasizing its developmental projects and financial aid to the needy. They accused Raut of being involved in corrupt activities and unable to appreciate the Foundation's positive contributions. The Shiv Sena spokesperson highlighted the Foundation's efforts in supporting education and aiding those affected by natural disasters like landslides and floods.
Overall, the dispute revolves around allegations of financial mismanagement within the Shrikant Shinde Foundation, with one side questioning its transparency and the other side defending its charitable works.