An audio clip of Maharashtra BJP chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule has stirred controversy as it appears to show him instructing party workers to take journalists to dhabas (roadside restaurants) and treat them well to prevent negative publicity before the elections. This viral audio clip has led to allegations that the BJP is attempting to influence the media.
The alleged instructions were reportedly given by Bawankule during his address to BJP workers in Ahmednagar, where he discussed the management of polling booths.
Facing criticism from the opposition, Bawankule clarified that his intention was to advocate treating journalists with respect and encouraging party workers to engage with them to better understand their perspectives regarding the allocated polling booths.
