Sanjay Raut alleges Shiv Sena MLA involvement, claims money was promised to candidates- The Week

In the first major cash seizure since the model code of conduct came to force in Maharashtra ahead of the November 20 assembly elections, Rs 5 crore was recovered by Pune rural police from a car.

ALSO READ: Why Maharashtra assembly polls may not be a MVA versus Mahayuti affair alone

The Satara-bound white Innova heading to Pune was stopped during a police nakabandi at Khed Shivapur toll plaza on Monday night when the unaccounted cash was found.

A total of Rs 5 crore in cash was recovered from the four occupants in the car. One of the occupants was Shahaji Nalawade who is said to be an aide of Shiv Sena MLA Shahajibapu Patil, according to TV reports.

Sanjay Raut, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP, slammed Eknath Shinde, saying the Innova belonged to an MLA from his party. He also alleged that “Rs 15 crore was seized” by the police. However, police and district election officials who counted the money clarified that Rs 5 crore was recovered from the car.

Raut even went on to allege that each candidate was promised Rs 75 crore ahead of the elections and the latest seizure was part of the first instalment.

In a post on X on Monday night claimed “Rs 15 crore” has been seized from a car belonging to an MLA from the Shiv Sena (which is led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde).