Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai

Mumbai, Sep 23: A fresh war of words has erupted between Nationalist Congress Party leaders Rupali Chakankar and Rupali Thombre Patil following Chakankar’s comparison of herself to social reformer Savitribai Phule.

The controversy comes amid discussions surrounding Chakankar’s name being linked to Nashik-based alleged fraudster Ashok Kharat after a photograph of the two surfaced. Thombre Patil had earlier criticised Chakankar over the issue.

Reacting to Chakankar’s remarks about being Savitribai Phule’s daughter, Thombre Patil said Chakankar was not qualified to invoke the social reformer’s name.

“I am telling you with utmost responsibility, Rupali Chakankar, you are not qualified to take the name of Savitri Mai,” Thombre Patil said, questioning Chakankar’s contribution to creating awareness against superstition.

She also criticised Chakankar over the alleged treatment of women in connection with the case, saying the State Women’s Commission was expected to protect and support women.

Thombre Patil further took a swipe at Chakankar, saying that wearing red lipstick did not mean a person had common sense.

Earlier, Chakankar had told the media that allegations against her were baseless and that she was fighting them at every level. She said she was the daughter of Maharashtra and would not succumb to false allegations.

Referring to Savitribai Phule, Chakankar said the social reformer had faced attacks on her character around 200 years ago, and that she too was continuing her fight as Savitribai’s daughter.

Chakankar maintained that she was standing firm against the allegations and remained among the people.