Amid Maharashtra drought, minister's son's birthday bash draws opposition fire

A severe drought has spread across large parts of Maharashtra, and in this backdrop, state minister Jaykumar Rawal celebrated his son's birthday in grand style, inviting celebrities. While farmers on one side are in distress, the opposition has expressed sharp anger over the lavish celebration at the minister's home.

Rain has failed many parts of Maharashtra this time, making the drought situation in the state very severe. Crops are withering before farmers' eyes. The shortage of fodder and water for cattle has also worsened, forcing distressed farmers to consider extreme steps.

Meanwhile, two videos surfaced from Dhule district and quickly went viral on social media. One video shows a celebration for minister Jaykumar Rawal's son's birthday, with lighting and celebrities present. The other video shows a performance by well-known dancer Gautami Patil at an event held for Kunal Patil's birthday, which has also become a talking point.

The matter has turned political, with the opposition attacking the government. Senior Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar hit out at the government, saying: "Farmers in drought, minister's son's birthday celebrated in style! It is deeply unfortunate that while farmers in the state are facing a severe drought crisis, a minister's son's birthday is being celebrated with such fanfare. On one hand, farmers' crops have dried up due to lack of rain and the shortage of fodder and water for cattle has become severe, while on the other, those in power are holding such celebratory events." He further wrote, "Was it necessary to hold such a grand birthday celebration when the state's farmers have tears in their eyes?" He said the government should have shown sensitivity and come forward first to help farmers, but this display clearly shows the government's insensitivity.

Vikas Lavande of the Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar) also targeted the government, saying in his post: "With a severe drought looming over Maharashtra and farmers reeling under it, minister Jaykumar Rawal's son's birthday is being celebrated with an entertainment event featuring celebrities. On one hand farmers are losing their lives, while on the other the celebration and glitz continue at the homes of those in power. Where does such insensitivity come from?"

Both leaders questioned in their statements why such celebrations were needed at the homes of ministers in power and their close associates when the state's farmers are suffering the brunt of the drought.