A political row erupted as BJP accused NCP leader Supriya Sule and Maharashtra Congress chief Nana Patole of a Bitcoin scam. Former IPS officer Ravindranath Patil alleged they misappropriated bitcoins from a 2018 cryptocurrency fraud case. He claimed the funds were used to influence the ongoing Assembly elections.
Patil also accused ex-Pune Police Commissioner Amitabh Gupta and then-Deputy Commissioner Bhagyashri Nautake of aiding the scam. According to Patil, a seized Bitcoin wallet was replaced under Gupta’s orders. Cyber expert Pankaj Ghode and Gaurav Mehta allegedly tampered with evidence.
The Enforcement Directorate raided Mehta’s premises in connection with the case on November 20.
BJP Releases Audio Clips Targeting Sule and Patole
The BJP released audio clips, claiming they implicate Sule and Patole. Spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi alleged the opposition leaders used illegal Bitcoin transactions to fund their campaign. Trivedi demanded immediate action against the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) leaders.
BJP leader Vinod Tawde called for action, accusing Sule and Patole of hiding their involvement. The party said the audio clips prove the opposition’s misuse of Bitcoin funds.
Sule Denies Charges, Files Complaints
Supriya Sule refuted the allegations, calling the audio clips fake. She accused the BJP of spreading false information before the elections. Sule filed complaints with the Election Commission and Pune Cyber Cell, targeting Ravindranath Patil and Gaurav Mehta.
Sule also issued defamation notices against Trivedi. She challenged him to a public debate and denied all accusations. “I am ready to answer BJP’s charges on any platform,” she said.
Maharashtra Votes Amid Controversy
Maharashtra votes in a single phase today, November 20, for its 288-member Assembly. Over 4,000 candidates are contesting the polls. The BJP-led Mahayuti alliance faces the MVA opposition in a crucial battle. Vote counting will take place on November 23.