 |
|
The upcoming Maharashtra assembly elections have witnessed the filing of nominations by over 8000 candidates. Among them, Parag Shah, the incumbent BJP MLA from Ghatkopar East, has emerged as the wealthiest contender. According to his election affidavit, Shah's current assets amount to a staggering Rs 3383.06 crore. This remarkable figure represents a substantial 575% increase compared to his declared assets in the 2019 assembly elections, which were valued at Rs 550.62 crores.
Shah's significant wealth accumulation over the past five years has sparked public interest and scrutiny. While his opponents have not publicly accused him of any wrongdoing, his substantial wealth increase raises questions about the sources of his income and potential conflicts of interest. The public is eager to understand how Shah has managed to amass such substantial wealth during his tenure as an elected official. This scrutiny is particularly relevant in the context of the upcoming elections, where voters are increasingly demanding transparency and accountability from their representatives.
Despite the controversies surrounding his wealth, Shah maintains his innocence and asserts that his wealth is not a reflection of any illicit activities. In an exclusive interview with NDTV, Shah stated that he is an honest candidate and that his enemies have never questioned his integrity. He further emphasizes that his wealth is not defined by material possessions but by his feelings and desire to utilize his resources for the betterment of society. He claims to donate over 50% of his savings to social causes, highlighting his commitment to philanthropy and social welfare.
Shah, a prominent figure in the business world, is the chairman of the MICI Group, which he has been running for the past 25 years. He recently faced a brief illness that became a subject of public discussion. However, Shah dismissed the concerns, attributing them to the inherent skepticism and negativity often found in politics. His experience as a businessman and his active involvement in social work have further shaped his persona as a multifaceted individual striving to contribute to society beyond his political role.
Source: Ghatkopar MLA's Assets Up 575%, Now He's Maharashtra's Richest Candidate