BJP MLA Lonikar's Controversial Comments Draw Criticism from Saamana

Shiv Sena’s mouthpiece Saamana has launched a scathing editorial attack on BJP MLA Babanrao Lonikar, following controversial remarks he made while criticizing government detractors. The remarks, made during an official event in Partur, have triggered strong reactions across political circles and have now drawn fierce condemnation from Saamana.

During the inauguration of the 'Har Ghar Solar' scheme in Vatur village of Marathwada’s Partur taluka, Lonikar took an aggressive stance, chastising citizens and farmers for criticizing the government. He said:

“Modi gave your father ₹6,000 for sowing. I started your mother’s salary. Our government deposited money under the 'Ladki Bahin' scheme in your nannies’ names. And yet you speak against us?”

Saamana editorially denounced this tone, calling it “inhuman” and unworthy of a public representative. The article questioned the intent behind such comments at a government scheme’s inauguration, stating that instead of speaking about public welfare, Lonikar delivered “a dose of power” to the villagers.

In a sharp-tongued critique, Saamana accused the BJP of being intoxicated by power and wealth. The editorial stated:

“Many are now fed up with the butter of power. One such butterball is BJP’s Babanrao Lonikar. These people, who once begged for votes from their beloved sisters, now flaunt the ₹1,500 given under welfare schemes as personal charity.”

The publication mocked the arrogance within BJP ranks, accusing party members of behaving like “moneylenders” and claiming ownership over state-funded schemes.

The editorial reminded Lonikar and the BJP leadership that welfare aid like the ₹6,000 PM-Kisan scheme is funded not from their personal coffers, but from the public treasury — a treasury built by the contributions of the people themselves. It sharply rebuked:

“Neither you, your Chief Minister, nor your Prime Minister pay farmers from your own pockets. It is the people's money being returned to them. How dare you boast of giving it?”

Saamana didn’t spare Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis either, accusing him of turning a blind eye to repeated controversial statements by party leaders. The piece noted:

“Fadnavis will now once again play his usual tune — ‘I have spoken to the concerned’. But the arrogance remains.”

Referencing Prime Minister Modi’s self-styled title as the “principal servant of the people,” the editorial accused BJP leaders of forgetting that designation, instead treating citizens like serfs and themselves as benefactors.

In a particularly stinging line, the editorial quipped:

“Babanrao, even though your surname contains ‘Loni’ [butter], it seems power has turned it bitter. You insult voters without hesitation.”