Pune: MNS Chief Raj Thackeray Criticizes BJP’s Toll Collection Amidst Potholed Roads

Pune, 27th July 2023: In the midst of a large number of potholes plaguing the state’s roads, questions are being raised about the basis for toll collection. MNS Chief, Raj Thackeray, voiced his criticism, urging BJP leaders to clarify the purpose and beneficiaries of toll collection.

Against the backdrop of the upcoming elections, Raj Thackeray convened a meeting with MNS branch presidents, department presidents, and office bearers on Wednesday. Following the meeting, he addressed the media during a press conference. The incident involving MNS activists vandalizing a toll booth due to the delay faced by Amit Thackeray’s vehicle drew criticism from BJP leaders, to which Raj responded.

Clarifying the incident, Raj stated that Amit Thackeray was not attempting to evade the toll booth. Instead, his vehicle was stuck in a long queue, even after having a FASTag and paying the toll. Frustrated by the unnecessary delay, the activists resorted to vandalism. Raj pointed out that the BJP had once promised a toll-free Maharashtra, but that promise has yet to be fulfilled. He questioned whether the toll charges serve any purpose and demanded transparency regarding the beneficiaries of the collected toll money.

Currently, Maharashtra lacks a proper opposition party, leaving MNS as the only party taking on that role. Raj Thackeray expressed concern about the apparent connections between the other parties in the state.
It remains to be seen how the toll collection issue and the state’s road conditions will influence the upcoming elections.