A public feud between two senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders in Maharashtra has laid bare sharp internal divisions within the party's Chandrapur unit, just a day after it faced an electoral setback in the region. The controversy revolves around the dedication ceremony of the newly constructed ₹280-crore Pandit Deendayal Chandrapur Cancer Hospital.
Allegations of Obstruction and a Heated Denial
The rift spilled into the open on Monday when former state minister and senior BJP leader Sudhir Mungantiwar expressed anguish before the media. He alleged that a party MLA had attempted to stall the hospital's dedication ceremony. Although he did not name anyone directly, party sources widely interpreted his remarks as targeting Chandrapur MLA Kishor Jorgewar.
Mungantiwar claimed that a letter seeking to defer the event was submitted to the district administration. He stated that any attempt to obstruct the opening of a cancer hospital was "unacceptable" and ran contrary to public interest and party discipline. "Opposition to a programme for people's welfare will not be tolerated even at the cost of my political career," he asserted.
In response, MLA Kishor Jorgewar issued a categorical denial. He described reports suggesting he sought a postponement as "misleading and politically motivated." Clarifying his stance, Jorgewar explained that his letter to the administration on December 9 did not call for deferring the ceremony. Instead, it highlighted the need for ensuring adequate preparedness before the hospital becomes fully operational.
Differing Priorities: Politics vs. Patient Readiness
The two leaders presented starkly different narratives about their concerns. Mungantiwar, highlighting his long association with the project, said he deliberately stayed away from the dais during the event to ensure the focus remained on patients rather than politics. He emphasized that the hospital was intended to provide critical care to cancer patients across the region and should not become a stage for political strife.
On the other hand, Jorgewar defended his communication, stating his sole aim was to ensure basic arrangements like water supply, manpower, and essential infrastructure were in place to prevent inconvenience to patients and their families. "The inauguration of the hospital is a matter of pride for Chandrapur and should not be politicised. Patient welfare was my only concern," the MLA said.
Exposing Cracks After Electoral Defeat
This public spat has brought simmering internal tensions within the BJP's Chandrapur unit to the fore. The controversy underscores significant questions over the party's internal cohesion as it attempts to recalibrate following its recent defeat in the Chandrapur Municipal Council elections.
The incident highlights the challenges the party faces in presenting a united front, especially when dealing with high-profile public welfare projects. While the dedication programme eventually went ahead as planned, the exchanged barbs have undoubtedly left a mark on the party's local image.
