"What is the need to study the Uttar Pradesh model? Fadnavis should ask us, we will tell him how to waive farm loan. Chief Minister's statement in the Assembly is just a tactic of buying time," Vikhe Patil told reporters here.
Speaking in the Assembly earlier during the day, Fadnavis said the Maharashtra government would study the Uttar Pradesh model of farm loan waiver. His statement came against the backdrop of persistent pressure from the opposition Congress-NCP as well the ruling BJP and the Shiv Sena, for writing off the loans of farmers.
"Implementation of loan waiver can take a little time, but the government should first announce it on the floor of the House," he said.
Taking exception to Fadnavis' statement that loan waiver decision was the prerogative of the government and not high court, Vikhe Patil said courts had to pull up the government if it fails in its duties.
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Speaking about Congress-NCP's Sangharsh Yatra, Vikhe Patil said farmers are now hoping that they can get their loan waived off through agitation.
Senior NCP leader Ajit Pawar said if the government has the will, it can waive the the loan amount by taking loan.
Former state Chief Minister Prithivraj Chavan said Uttar Pradesh loan waiver model was not acceptable to Maharashtra.
"In UP, loan up to Rs one lakh is waived. In Maharashtra, no such restriction will be accepted.