Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut on Friday claimed that some leaders within the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) are attempting to tarnish the image of Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, alleging that internal differences exist within the ruling party. His remarks came amid political discussions surrounding Gadkari's recent statements and growing public attention on his role in the BJP.
Addressing the media in Mumbai, Raut alleged that the confusion surrounding Gadkari had been created by members of his own party. According to him, efforts were being made to damage Gadkari's public image because he is seen as a strong contender for higher leadership roles in the future. Raut said Gadkari himself should clarify the situation and present his side of the matter.
The Shiv Sena (UBT) leader further claimed that similar attempts had been made against Gadkari before 2014, when discussions were taking place regarding his leadership within the BJP. He alleged that certain leaders wanted to weaken Gadkari's position by creating controversies around him and affecting public perception.
Raut also suggested that Gadkari was aware of these alleged attempts but had not spoken openly about them. He maintained that the alleged campaign against the Union Minister was being carried out by people from within the BJP rather than by opposition parties.
The BJP has not officially responded to Raut's allegations. There has been no public statement from Nitin Gadkari regarding the claims made by the Shiv Sena (UBT) leader. The remarks have, however, added a fresh political dimension to the ongoing debate over internal dynamics within the BJP.
Raut's comments are expected to trigger further political reactions, with opposition parties likely to continue raising questions about the BJP's internal functioning. Meanwhile, the ruling party has remained focused on governance and has not indicated any internal discord.
