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Journalism of Courage
NCP has pulled up its Tribal Development Minister Babanrao Pachpute for suggesting that DNA tests be carried out on candidates to prevent non-tribals from usurping benefits reserved under the ST quota.
On Thursday,state NCP chief Madhukar Pichad said he has written to CM Ashok Chavan and his deputy Chhagan Bhujbal,asking them not to accept the suggestion as it was impractical and would be counterproductive. Pichad said his party would oppose any attempts to push the proposal further.
“Pachpute said his statement had been exaggerated by a section of the media. He will clarify his position to the media soon,” said NCP spokesperson Madan Bafna. He said Pachpute had just listed the various suggestions made at a meeting to prevent bogus tribals from claiming ST quota benefits.
Pachpute was not available for comment.
