Senior NCP leader Jayant Patil slammed the state government over farmer distress, caste injustice, corruption, and unnecessary infrastructure projects, calling for accountability and urgent relief in a fiery Assembly session.
Mumbai, July 4 – In a scathing speech delivered during the discussion on 293 resolutions in the Legislative Assembly, senior NCP leader Jayant Patil launched a powerful offensive against the state government, Finance Minister Ajit Pawar, and BJP MLA Babanrao Lonikar, accusing them of failing farmers, exploiting workers, and misusing public funds on unnecessary infrastructure like the Shakti Peeth Highway.
Patil’s speech tore through the state budget and questioned the government’s sincerity toward Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, accusing it of perpetuating systemic injustice.
Jayant Patil criticized Agriculture Minister Babanrao Lonikar for his “arrogant” language toward farmers, stating,
“Are you doing farmers a favor? Are you giving from your own pocket? This disrespect will not be tolerated by Maharashtra’s self-respecting farmers.”
He demanded that ministers change their tone and show dignity toward the farming community, which he said is currently facing severe hardship.
Patil flagged the devastating impact of pre-monsoon storms, which destroyed over 77,300 hectares of crops, as per the Agriculture Department. He criticized the delay in Panchnama surveys and demanded immediate compensation for farmers.
He also alleged large-scale corruption in Jalna district, where officials reportedly siphoned off ₹34 crore by showing fake names to avail subsidy benefits.
“Officials are eating butter from the palm of the sheep,” he remarked sarcastically.
Taking a jibe at the government’s electoral tactics, Patil said,
“As per your tradition, you’ll probably waive off loans before the 2029 elections. But farmers need relief now, not for votes later.”
He revealed that 767 farmers committed suicide between January and March this year, and highlighted the 30% loss in onion yield due to unseasonal rains.
Patil strongly opposed the Shakti Peeth Highway project, stating that it threatens irrigated farmland and increases flood risk in the Krishna Valley region.
“Was there even a demand for this highway? Why push a project that displaces farmers and benefits no one?” he asked.
He demanded that the government publish a list of lands being acquired and clarify if any vested interests are involved.
Patil raised concerns over Maharashtra’s ballooning debt, warning that indiscriminate borrowing could derail the state’s finances.
He also condemned the practice of hiring contract workers on low wages, and advised the government to form an Employment Corporation that can ensure fair wages and reduce exploitation.
“The government must act responsibly. Don’t allow injustice to the poor while indulging in grand announcements and wasteful projects,” Patil concluded, as the Assembly echoed with sharp debate.
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