Jarange Patil says original device of Rs 500 crore audio clip is with Ramdas Kadam

An audio clip linked to an alleged Rs 500 crore transaction has caused a stir in Maharashtra politics. Manoj Jarange Patil, leader of the Maratha reservation movement, had brought the clip out, and several questions have since been raised. Where the clip came from and what its real source is have been under discussion for the past few days. Jarange Patil has now spoken on the matter and made a significant claim.

Jarange Patil said clearly that he cannot reveal the source of the recording that went viral. He said that if information is needed, Ramdas Kadam should be asked. Jarange claimed the original device holding the clip is with Kadam himself.

Jarange also said Kadam had played the clip for him two hours earlier. He asked why, if an ordinary person were involved in such a case, that person would be arrested first and questioned later, whereas here an SIT was formed first.

Jarange Patil alleged that some people have been gathered against him. According to him, a group of 30 to 35 people has been put together to speak against him and is being given full backing.

Jarange alleged that Devendra Fadnavis was doing this earlier and that Eknath Shinde is now doing the same. He said he still has information on many matters. Jarange warned that if he got a year or six months of free time, he would dig everything out by the roots.

Besides political issues, Jarange also voiced concern over drought conditions in the state. He said the water situation is extremely bad and orchards have been scorched in many places. According to him, the joy of Diwali is not visible on farmers' faces this time.

Encouraging farmers, Jarange said they should celebrate Diwali simply and not insist on needless demands. He also made an emotional appeal that farmers must not die by suicide under any circumstances.

While allegations and counter-allegations over the alleged Rs 500 crore audio clip continue, the distress of farmers also needs attention. All eyes are now on what the investigation turns up about the clip.