Shiv Sena's MLA Santosh Bangar, who is vying for re-election in the upcoming polls, has stirred controversy with his recent remarks at a Zilla Parishad school in Hingoli district. In an unusual move, Bangar urged young students below the age of 10 to persuade their parents to vote for him. He went as far as suggesting that the children should refrain from eating for two days if their parents don't support his candidacy. He even coached them on what to say to their parents, emphasizing the need to endorse him for their next meal.

However, his comments have sparked outrage, especially considering the Election Commission's recent directives against involving children in election activities. Critics, including opposition parties like the NCP and Congress, have condemned Bangar's statements, calling for strict action to be taken against him. They argue that his actions not only violate election guidelines but also set a harmful precedent.

This isn't the first time Bangar has courted controversy with his remarks. Just last month, he made headlines by stating that he would resort to drastic measures if Narendra Modi wasn't re-elected as Prime Minister in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

In response to the uproar, political opponents have accused Bangar of being a repeat offender who escapes consequences due to his alliance with the BJP. They demand accountability from the Election Commission, urging it to act impartially.

Meanwhile, in unrelated news concerning school timings, the Maharashtra government has mandated that both private and government schools adjust their schedules for pre-primary and primary sections due to concerns over sleep deprivation among young children. From the next academic year, classes for these sections will run from 9 am to 2 pm to mitigate the effects of early morning classes on students' well-being.

Tags

• shiv sena
• santosh bangar
• eknath shinde

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