The Congress on Monday accused Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar of ignoring his ministerial responsibilities and instead spending his time in campaigning for BJP-sponsored candidates for the municipal polls which concluded on Sunday.
"The ruling BJP had to get Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar to campaign for local municipal elections and at the same time it is shocking that India's Defence Minister actually has the time to campaign for such polls. Question is does he spare enough time for such a sensitive portfolio," Sunil Kawthankar said.
Results of the poll for the state's 11 municipal councils will be declared on Tuesday.
The BJP, meanwhile, refuted the charge that Parrikar actively campaigned for the municipal poll.
"The defence minister was not campaigning for the poll. He was only interacting with the workers, who get inspired by Manohar Parrikar's presence," BJP state president Vinay Tendulkar said, responding to the Congress's charge.
Both Parrikar, as well as union minister of state for AYUSH Shripad Naik campaigned for the BJP-backed candidates.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors
Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share
Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor
Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements
Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app