Dry fruits at Maharashtra drought meet trigger row; farmer mocks minister

Maharashtra's political landscape was shaken on Saturday following the serving of dry fruits at a drought review meeting in Nanded. The incident, captured on video and broadcasted widely, sparked outrage among farmers and opposition leaders. The Agriculture Minister, Dattatray Bharne, later received cashews and almonds as a gift from a farmer, which he declined.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis condemned the practice, stating it should have been avoided. Opposition parties, including the BJP and NCP, criticized the government's insensitivity towards the farmers struggling with the drought. State Social Justice Minister Sanjay Shirsat from the Shiv Sena accused officials of lacking awareness and responsibility.

The controversy has led to calls for a special session to address the drought crisis and to ensure proper procedures are followed in assessing and reporting such conditions.