Special Correspondent
Pune: NCP (Ajit Pawar faction) leader Rupali Thombre has come under heavy criticism for her controversial post on the Swargate rape case. In her post, she suggested that Pune was being unfairly defamed and claimed that the incident stemmed from a financial dispute over a consensual relationship.
In her post, Thombre stated that when the accused was brought to the Shivaji Court bus stand, DCP Gill questioned her intentions. “Madam, if you are planning to protest or blacken the accused’s face, please don’t,” he reportedly told her. In response, she assured him that she would not speak or protest without verifying the facts.
She further stated, “I wanted to review the remand report and understand the case. However, it is disheartening that Pune is being defamed over a dispute regarding payment in a consensual relationship.”
Additionally, she criticized the mismanagement at the bus stand, saying, “The administration’s inefficiency has been exposed. Now, they will not be spared. Either do your job properly or leave.”
Public Outrage
Thombre’s comments sparked outrage among citizens. Many accused her of insensitivity, particularly as a woman leader. Some of the reactions included:
“Tai, your language has changed after joining the ruling party. As a woman, such statements do not suit you.”
“You claim you don’t speak without verifying facts, but how did you determine it was a financial dispute?”
“I regret voting for you in the graduate constituency elections.”
“Politics is hitting new lows every day. A woman making such an unfortunate statement is truly disappointing.”
The backlash continues to grow, with many calling for Thombre to retract her statement and clarify her stance on the case.
