Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut has claimed that his time in jail may have been connected to the onset of his cancer and alleged that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi had advised him to undergo a toxicity test.
Raut made the remarks while speaking to reporters on Saturday. He said Gandhi had expressed concern about the possibility of food being tampered with while political leaders were in custody.
Raut raises concerns over jail conditions
Raut said he believed the present government was capable of taking extreme steps against those who oppose it. He claimed that Gandhi had warned him that people in jail could potentially face such risks.
“The disease started in the jail,” Raut alleged, referring to his cancer.
Raut spent more than 100 days in custody in 2022 in connection with the Patra Chawl redevelopment case in Mumbai.
Allegation over food and water
According to Raut, Gandhi had suggested that he undergo a toxicity test to determine whether any poisonous substance could have been mixed into his food.
Raut further alleged that food and water could be tampered with in custody and said Gandhi had cautioned him about the possibility.
He also claimed that the health condition of other political leaders who had spent time in jail was concerning.
Claims remain allegations
Raut’s statements constitute allegations about his experience in custody. He did not provide evidence in the remarks cited to establish that his cancer was caused by poisoning or that any toxic substance had been added to his food or water.
The comments have nevertheless drawn attention to concerns raised by the Shiv Sena (UBT) leader about the treatment and safety of political opponents while in custody.