BJP Slams Nana Patole Over Feet-Washing Video Row

Maharashtra Congress President Nana Patole has triggered a political firestorm after a video surfaced showing his supporters washing his feet during a Gurupurnima event. The incident occurred in Akola, where two party workers were seen performing the act while Patole stood by. The footage quickly went viral on social media, prompting sharp criticism from political opponents who described the visual as a display of feudal mindset within the grand old party. This incident highlights the growing tensions between political leaders and the optics of their public conduct in state politics.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) launched a scathing attack on the Congress, claiming the video perfectly reflects the party's underlying culture. BJP Minister Girish Mahajan criticized the leader, stating that such actions are reminiscent of a bygone era and demonstrate a lack of respect for party workers. BJP leaders argued that while leaders should serve the public, this incident shows a preference for being treated like royalty, further distancing the party from the common man's sensibilities. The criticism emphasizes the ongoing ideological friction between the two major national parties in Maharashtra.

Nana Patole responded to the controversy by clarifying that the act was a traditional gesture performed by workers out of respect on the occasion of Gurupurnima. He dismissed the BJP's criticism as a desperate attempt to divert attention from more pressing state issues. However, the controversy comes at a sensitive time for the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition as they prepare for upcoming electoral challenges. Political analysts suggest such optics could be leveraged by the ruling Mahayuti alliance to paint the Congress leadership as elitist, potentially shifting the narrative in key upcoming state elections.