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Don’t Attend Last Rites of Farmers Who Die by Suicide: Sena MLA Sanjay Gaikwad
The remarks drew criticism from opposition leaders and farmer groups as Maharashtra continues to record high suicide numbers among cultivators.
- On Tuesday, Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Gaikwad sparked controversy by suggesting people should boycott the funerals of farmers who die by suicide, arguing that allowing animals to feed on remains might deter others from ending their lives.
- Gaikwad made the remarks while addressing questions about Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi chief Prakash Ambedkar's recent description of farmers as "useless," urging distressed farmers to seek support from elected representatives instead.
- Between January 2022 and June 2026, Maharashtra recorded 13,128 farmer suicides, with Hindustan Times reporting that 8,145 families were eligible for state compensation, though 295 still await payment.
- Political leaders including Shiv Sena spokesperson Sanjay Nirupam and Kisan Sabha's Ajit Navale criticized the remarks, while Swabhimani Paksha leader Raju Shetti demanded an apology from Eknath Shinde.
- Gaikwad has a history of controversies, including a 2024 tiger tooth incident and slapping a canteen staff member last year, reflecting a pattern of inflammatory statements and actions.
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12 Articles
12 Articles
Skip funerals of farmers who die by suicide: Shinde Sena MLA's controversial advice
Sanjay Gaikwad said people should avoid the last rites of farmers who die by suicide. The remark triggered controversy while he urged distressed farmers to seek help from elected representatives.
·Noida, India
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Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Gaikwad, a member of the Shinde faction, has issued a controversial statement regarding farmer suicides. He said that instead of committing suicide, farmers should report their problems to MLAs, MPs, and the government.
Coverage Details
Total News Sources12
Leaning Left1Leaning Right4Center1Last UpdatedBias Distribution66% Right
Bias Distribution
- 66% of the sources lean Right
66% Right
L 17%
C 17%
R 66%
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