The BJP alleged that the recording was part of an attempt to advance Rahul Gandhi’s agenda and create divisions within the ruling alliance. The political row over an audio recording alleging a ₹ 500 crore payment to Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange intensified on Saturday, with the BJP accusing Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut of fabricating the clip using artificial intelligence (AI).
Meanwhile, Jarange, who has denied receiving any money, called on Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde to ensure a thorough investigation and hold everyone involved accountable, news agency PTI reported. He also alleged that the BJP had become the target of a sting operation.
Raut rejected the charge, claiming that a BJP member of legislative council (MLC) had leaked the recording amid what he described as “cut-throat competition” within the party. Raut maintained that internal rivalries within the BJP had led to the leak and described the incident as evidence of a “cut-throat” contest within the party. “If an internal audio clip is getting leaked, then the Home Department has gone against you (the CM),” Raut said.
He, however, claimed that the investigation would not produce any results. “The clip was leaked by a BJP MLC. He was involved in the talks with Jarange.
Responding to the allegations, Raut said Fadnavis should first register a case before ordering a forensic examination of the recording. The CM treated him with a lot of affection, which has backfired,” Raut said without identifying the lawmaker.
