Harshwardhan Sapkal
| Photo Credit: The Hindu

Maharashtra Congress chief Harshwardhan Sapkal on Sunday expressed concerns about the seizure of cannabis worth ₹12 crore from a farm in Buldhana district, claiming that one farmer could not have managed extensive cultivation without political backing.

Talking to reporters, Mr. Sapkal urged the local police to conduct a thorough investigation to find people behind the illegal operation.

According to reports, authorities confiscated cannabis plants worth more than ₹12.6 crore from a farm and arrested a farmer.

Following this operation, law enforcement has heightened vigilance across the district to prevent further illegal farming activities.

Mr. Sapkal claimed conventional farming has become unaffordable for many, pushing farmers to cultivate illegal drugs.

“If such a trend is seen in the State, it is a warning. I urge the government to take action. The current administration seems to be neglecting constitutional duties and is focusing on maintaining power,” he said.

The Congress leader pointed out that the revenue deficit in the State has led to the cessation of various government schemes and criticised the government for focusing on its interests.

He further urged the government to make “Chhava”, the film based on the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji, tax-free, citing that the State government is yet to act on the demand made on Shiv Jayanti earlier this week.