End the 'uncle-nephew' rule in Maharashtra, says PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday appealed to the people of Maharashtra to end the 'uncle-nephew' rule of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar and Ajit Pawar in the state.

Addressing a rally here, which serves as the traditional residence of the Pawars, Prime Minister Modi said, "This large gathering has not come to elect a new state government or to choose their member of legislative assembly (MLA). This is a second freedom struggle for you, this time from the rule of the uncle and nephew."

"The nation got its freedom but the farmers and citizens of Baramati have been enslaved by those under whom dreams and farms are not secure. Till when will you bear this? The farmer has woken up now and his fighting for their rights now," the Prime Minister added.

Calling the assembled his 'high command', Prime Minister Modi also pledged to give transparency to the workings of the government.

"I was born in an ordinary household, therefore, I am entitled to give you the account of the work that I do. You are my high command," he said.

The 288-member Maharashtra legislative assembly will see its elections on October 15, with the counting of the votes scheduled for October 19.