BJP MLC Alleges INDIA Bloc's CJP Protest Mirrors 'Terrorism'; Opposition Hits Back

Mumbai, Jul 21 : Maharashtra BJP MLC Sadabhau Khot on Tuesday alleged that the INDIA bloc was trying to create a "terrorism-like situation" in the country through the CJP-led protest in Delhi, drawing a sharp response from the Opposition. Clashes broke out between protesters and security personnel in Delhi on Monday during the "Sansad Chalo" march towards Parliament called by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) against alleged irregularities in various exams, and to demand Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation. A police statement claimed that more than 118 police personnel sustained injuries, while the number of injured protesters was 60. The CJP accused the Delhi Police of using excessive force against protesters. Talking to reporters about it, Khot alleged that some people were using social media to add fuel to the ongoing protest, and added, "The INDIA bloc is trying to create a terrorism-like situation in the country through the ongoing protest." The BJP leader also came out in support of minister Pradhan, and said there should be no change in his portfolio. He also urged the Union government not to make any changes in the cabinet. "Narendra (Modi) at the Centre, Devendra (Fadnavis) at the state helm and Dharmendra (Pradhan) in education (ministry) -- nothing will be changed," Khot said. Reacting to the remarks, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sushma Andhare said Khot's comments should not be taken seriously. "He became an MLC after bowing down so much that now he has to take the government's side. Khot himself had held protests for farmers in the past. Should that also be considered an act of terrorism? He has lost his conscience," she said.