Maharashtra Assembly Turmoil: Nana Patole Suspended Amidst Farmer Protest

Maharashtra Congress MLA Nana Patole faced a one-day suspension from the state legislative assembly Tuesday following a heated confrontation. Patole, who is a former speaker, ascended the podium demanding accountability from BJP MLA Babanrao Lonikar and Agriculture Minister Manikrao Kokate over their remarks deemed insulting to farmers.

The turmoil erupted immediately after Question Hour, prompting Speaker Rahul Narwekar to adjourn the House temporarily. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis chastised Patole for his aggressive approach, stating it was inappropriate and unexpected from a former assembly speaker.

Despite this, Patole returned to the podium, persisting in his call for action. His protest stemmed from controversial comments: Lonikar's assertion about benefits to critics and Kokate's suggestion of misuse of loan waiver funds by farmers. This led the speaker to suspend Patole for the day.

(With inputs from agencies.)