Shiv Sena (UBT) slams govt's drought aid appeal, demands crackdown on middlemen

Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) faction criticised the state government's recent public appeal for citizen contributions to drought relief in Maharashtra, saying the move highlights administrative shortcomings. The party urged the authorities to take swift action against intermediaries it alleges are siphoning off aid funds and supplies, calling for transparent distribution mechanisms. Party spokesperson emphasized that millions are enduring severe water scarcity and that reliance on private donations undermines the government's responsibility to provide relief. The demand comes as the monsoon season remains delayed, with several districts reporting acute water shortages and significant crop losses. No official response from the Maharashtra government was recorded at the time of reporting.