Nagpur: Questioning govt’s priorities, Congress chief spokesperson Atul Londhe on Saturday accused BJP of extravagant spending on Navratri Garba celebrations at a time when drought-hit farmers are struggling to make ends meet. He also alleged that festivities organised by BJP functionaries could cost as much as ₹100 crore over nine days.“BJP cited a lack of funds to provide farmers with only ₹5,000 in assistance while its functionaries were spending heavily on large-scale cultural events. Where is the money for these celebrations coming from, and is the expenditure consistent with govt’s stated concern for farmers?” he asked.Citing figures obtained from contractors, Londhe alleged that the events involved substantial expenditure on infrastructure, air-conditioning, sound systems, lighting and performers. The figures included ₹60 lakh for marquees spread across more than 24,000 square feet, ₹7 lakh a day for air-conditioning, and ₹50 lakh daily for sound, lighting and singers. Another ₹15 lakh to ₹25 lakh was allegedly spent on illumination and food arrangements each day.Londhe clarified that Congress did not oppose Garba or devotion to the goddess. His objection, he said, was to what he described as conspicuous spending at a time when farmers were facing severe distress.“Lavish celebrations amid the agricultural crisis amounted to insensitivity towards farmers,” he said.
