Political tensions flared up in Sangamner when Bharatiya Janata Party local leader Vasant Deshmukh made controversial comments about Jayashree Thorat, daughter of Congress leader Balasaheb Thorat, during a rally attended by former BJP MP Sujay Vikhe-Patil.
The incident led to violence in Sangamner, Ahilyanagar district, where an angry mob targeted vehicles belonging to Mahayuti leaders. Congress workers protested outside the police station until an FIR was filed at 5 am. Demonstrations continued the next day with demands for Deshmukh’s arrest.
Deshmukh’s comments about Jayashree Thorat, calling her derogatory names and questioning her character, sparked outrage. Videos of his speech circulated on social media, leading to retaliatory attacks on vehicles by Thorat supporters. This incident highlighted the growing political rivalry between the Thorat and Vikhe families in Ahmednagar.
Jayashree Thorat, in response, criticized the Mahayuti alliance for allowing such language and behavior. She questioned why Deshmukh had not been arrested yet and expressed her readiness to face such challenges. Sujay Vikhe-Patil also condemned Deshmukh’s remarks and called for action against those who vandalized their vehicles.
Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut and the Nationalist Congress Party led by Ajit Pawar both criticized Deshmukh for his derogatory comments and condemned the BJP for potentially inciting violence.
The incident in Sangamner underscores the intense political climate in the region and the need for responsible and respectful discourse among political leaders. Such incidents of personal attacks and violence have no place in a healthy democracy and should be condemned by all parties involved. Political differences should be debated through civil discourse and not through inflammatory language and actions that can lead to further tension and conflict. It is essential for leaders to set a positive example for the public and engage in constructive dialogue for the betterment of society as a whole.
