Sanjay Raut's Unlikely Paradise stirs controversy with explosive political claims
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut is set to release the English edition of his book, Unlikely Paradise, on March 23 in Delhi. The book, originally published in Marathi as Narkacha Swarg, includes four new chapters in its Hindi and English versions. Among its claims, Raut alleges that former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned due to pressure from a potential Enforcement Directorate (ED) notice.
Raut's book makes several bold assertions about political interference. He states that Dhankhar was threatened with an ED case over an old property purchase, forcing his resignation. Additionally, Raut claims that Dhankhar was informed about a no-confidence motion against the BJP government but chose not to act.
The book also targets BJP leader Ujjwal Nikam, suggesting his controversial remark about biryani being served to terrorist Ajmal Kasab was a deliberate move. According to Raut, Nikam made the statement to damage the reputation of Congress and NCP while securing a Rajya Sabha seat as a reward. Another claim involves former Election Commission member Ashok Lavasa, whom Raut alleges faced ED threats. However, as of March 2026, the ED has not issued any official statement or evidence supporting Raut's allegations. The agency's summons to Raut in October 2024 pertained to unrelated money laundering cases, with no public confirmation linking them to his claims. The book launch in Delhi is expected to draw prominent figures, including Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who is likely to attend the event.
Raut's book presents a series of unproven allegations against political figures and institutions. While the claims have sparked discussion, the ED has not verified any of them. The release of Unlikely Paradise in English may bring further attention to these assertions, particularly with high-profile attendees at the launch.
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