Sanjay Raut Claims Congress MLC Dhiraj Lingade Offered Rs 20 Crore To Join Shinde Sena

On Sunday in Mumbai, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut claimed that Congress MLC Dhiraj Lingade was offered Rs 20 crore to defect to the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction. The allegation was quickly denied by Lingade, who expressed surprise over the claims made by the Member of Parliament.

Speaking on the matter, Raut linked the alleged offer to the ongoing political developments in the state, referencing the recent switchover of Shiv Sena (UBT) MLC Sachin Ahir to Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena faction. Raut claimed the offer to Lingade was made just days prior.

"I have heard that there is a legislator named Lingade who has received an offer of Rs 20 crore. It is a story from the day before yesterday," Raut said. He further claimed that the legislator was offered the money by the Shinde faction and was promised MLC status in the upcoming elections.

Lingade, who serves as a Congress MLC representing the Amravati graduates constituency, strongly refuted Raut's claims. He stated that he had not received any such proposal and questioned why the Shiv Sena (UBT) leader would make such an assertion.

"I have not received any such offer. Sanjay Raut is the leader of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), I am surprised on what basis he made this statement. This statement is wrong," Lingade said.

Lingade further clarified his position, stating that he has not been in contact with anyone regarding a potential party switch. He explained that any interactions he has with government officials are strictly professional.

"I have no contact with anyone. I am a graduate constituency MLC. I meet the ministers and the Chief Minister for work, they all meet," Lingade added.

The exchange highlights the ongoing political tensions and communication gaps within the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance, of which both the Shiv Sena (UBT) and the Congress are members.