Dhananjay Munde, Leader of Opposition in the Maharashtra Legislative Council, yesterday alleged that the BJP-led state government had yet to take any steps for drought relief. This comes a week after the state government declared drought in 151 talukas (in 26 of the 36 districts in the state) on October 31.

Speaking to reporters in drought-affected Beed, Munde said, "The declaration of drought is only on paper." "Beed district has been especially neglected. The CM is not holding review meetings here. May be because district guardian minister (Pankaja Munde, his estranged cousin) is not in the country," the NCP leader said. He added that the drought looming over the state is worse than the one in 1972, but the government is yet to provide financial assistance or arrange supply of drinking water and fodder.