Sanjay Raut's Explosive Book Alleges ED Pressure on Dhankhar, Lavasa; Claims Pawar and Thackeray Aided Modi and Shah
In a sensational revelation from his book 'Unlikely Paradise', written during his time in prison, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut has made startling allegations against the Modi government and its agencies. The Marathi book, which was released in 2025, is set to have its English version launched on Monday, containing additional incidents that promise to stir political discourse.
Allegations of ED Pressure on Jagdeep Dhankhar
Raut claims that former Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned in 2025 under intense pressure from the Enforcement Directorate (ED). According to the book, this pressure was a direct response to Dhankhar's "independent political moves against the Modi government." The narrative details how rumours had circulated about Dhankhar and his wife selling their Jaipur house and transferring part of the proceeds overseas.
"When whispers emerged of Dhankhar's independent political moves against the Modi govt, ED reportedly presented him with a file, pressuring him to resign," the book alleges. "His initial refusal to comply led to intensified scrutiny, leaving him visibly uneasy." Raut asserts that the ED, along with other investigative agencies, prepared a file to press charges against Dhankhar, ultimately coercing his resignation.
Ashok Lavasa's Ordeal for Dissent
The book also delves into the case of former Election Commissioner Ashok Lavasa, alleging that he and his family faced severe repercussions for taking a dissenting position. Lavasa had initiated action based on complaints citing eight breaches of the Election Code of India, aiming to restore public trust in the Election Commission of India (ECI).
"Despite advice to remain silent, he refused to yield to pressure. Predictably, Lavasa and his family faced severe repercussions for his dissent," Raut writes. The book claims that an ED raid on Lavasa's residence "compelled his resignation" in 2020, and he remained under the agency's scrutiny even afterward.
Claims of Pawar and Thackeray Aiding Modi and Shah
In a twist that highlights past political dynamics, Raut's book alleges that during the UPA government's tenure, there were rumours of Narendra Modi, then Gujarat Chief Minister, potentially being jailed in connection with the post-Godhra riots. However, NCP SP chief Sharad Pawar, then a Union minister, intervened.
"In a cabinet meeting, Pawar had opined, 'It's inappropriate to jail a democratically elected chief minister, regardless of political differences'," the book claims. "This view resonated with many, sparing Modi from incarceration." The book pointedly asks, "Does Modi remember these favours and morality in politics?"
Furthermore, Raut alleges that both Pawar and Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray played crucial roles in helping Amit Shah secure bail when he faced charges in several cases, with the CBI opposing bail. "A Maharashtra cadre officer in the CBI unit was particularly adamant against granting Shah bail. Modi sought Pawar's intervention and as was his nature, Pawar helped him and Shah was released on bail," the book states.
It also recounts an incident where Shah, facing "grave danger" after the Gujarat riots, arrived at Thackeray's residence in a black-and-yellow cab with his son, requesting intervention with a judge. "If you speak to the judge, he will listen and not defy your wishes," Shah allegedly told Thackeray. The book claims Thackeray summoned Manohar Joshi, provided the judge's name, and instructed him to discuss the matter, concluding, "You may hold any position but remember that you too are a Hindu."
"That single call altered Amit Shah's political trajectory. Yet the world witnessed his ungrateful treatment of the Shiv Sena and the Thackeray family," Raut writes, adding a layer of critique to the narrative.
Broader Implications and Release Details
The English version of 'Unlikely Paradise' is set to include more incidents, expanding on these allegations. Raut's claims paint a picture of political pressure, agency overreach, and historical favours that have shaped contemporary politics. As the book hits shelves, it is expected to spark debates and discussions across the political spectrum, challenging narratives and recalling past events that continue to influence India's political landscape.
