A new pattern appears to be emerging in Indian politics, with voters being warned to support BJP or face the denial of development funds.
BY PC Bureau
December 5, 2025: A disturbing pattern appears to be emerging in Indian politics, where voters are being threatened with the denial of development funds if they do not support certain parties. In the past six months, several high-profile cases have surfaced , drawing sharp criticism from opposition parties, civil society, and election observers.
Arunachal Minister Sparks Outrage
The latest flashpoint comes from Arunachal Pradesh, where Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Ojing Tasing allegedly warned voters that welfare schemes would be withheld in panchayat segments that did not back the BJP. The remarks, made while campaigning for BJP candidate Gunu Linggi in Roing, Lower Dibang Valley, have gone viral on social media.
“I don’t know to speak indirectly. I am saying this directly – in those panchayat segments where the BJP loses, welfare schemes will not be given. As the Panchayati Raj Minister, I mean what I say,” Tasing is heard declaring.
The Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) condemned the statement as “shocking, unconstitutional, and undemocratic,” calling it a blatant misuse of ministerial authority. APCC president Nabam Tuki emphasized that public funds “belong to the people of Arunachal Pradesh, not to any political party.” The Congress has filed formal complaints with the State Election Commission and the Governor, demanding Tasing’s resignation and a public apology.
Civil society groups have warned that such rhetoric could undermine voter confidence and exacerbate regional disparities in development. The State Election Commission has yet to announce any probe.
Panchayati Raj and Rural Development Minister #OjingTasing has sparked controversy by stating that #governmentschemes will not be implemented in villages and areas where the #BJP candidate #loses the election. He added that, as the Panchayat Minister, he is making this statement… pic.twitter.com/iB5d96mlqy
— The Arunachal Times (@arunachaltimes_) December 4, 2025
Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar Issued Threat
Earlier last month, in Maharashtra, Deputy Chief Minister and NCP leader Ajit Pawar made headlines for telling voters in Malegaon town, Baramati tehsil, that development funds would flow only if they backed his party’s candidates in the Nagar Panchayat elections.
“If you give me victory for all 18 candidates, I am ready to deliver everything that I have promised. But if you cross-mark me, I will also cross-mark you. The vote is in your hands, and the fund is in my hand,” Pawar said during the campaign.
Opposition parties accused him of voter intimidation. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Ambadas Danve questioned the Election Commission’s inaction, while Maharashtra Congress chief Harshwardhan Sapkal alleged internal conflicts within the BJP-NCP alliance.
STORY | You have votes, I have funds; if you reject, I will also reject: Ajit Pawar tells electors
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has told voters at Malegaon in the district that he will ensure there is no shortage of funds for the town if they elected the… pic.twitter.com/LG5EXt3P5r
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) November 22, 2025
BJP MLA Babanrao Lonikar’s Controversy in Jalna
In June 2025, BJP MLA Babanrao Lonikar from Jalna drew criticism after allegedly threatening villagers in Borgaon, Partur constituency, over their voting behavior. At a public meeting inaugurating an Rs 8-crore road, Lonikar reportedly said, “At least now, the villagers should support me. Don’t think that you will keep getting Rs 5–10 crore funds if you do not vote for me.”
A video of his remarks circulated widely, highlighting a similar trend of linking development schemes to voter loyalty.
It’s the arrogance!!
An MLA, who receives his salary from taxpayers, is telling the people that they have clothes, shoes, and mobiles only because of him and his party.
The statement by Maharashtra BJP MLA Babanrao Lonikar must be condemned. pic.twitter.com/qqJ2BbAXn9
— Dr. Shama Mohamed (@drshamamohd) June 26, 2025
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Concerns Over Democratic Norms
These three incidents reveal a troubling trend where elected officials appear to use public funds as leverage during elections. Experts say such statements contravene the principles of free and fair elections, undermine grassroots democracy, and violate constitutional norms that guarantee development resources without political discrimination.
With multiple political leaders across different states making similar claims, the debate over voter intimidation and the misuse of government resources is intensifying, placing Election Commissions and civil society under pressure to respond decisively before upcoming polls.
