Earlier this year, Pankaja Munde posted selfies during her tour of drought-hit Latur provoking criticism

Maharashtra Minister Pankaja Munde, in audio clips that are being circulated on social media, can be heard making veiled threats to the priest of a popular temple in her constituency.NDTV cannot verify the authenticity of the audio. Ms Munde has so far not commented on the controversy. Nor has her party, the BJP.The shrine's head priest, Namdev Shastri, has reportedly denied the minister permission to deliver a speech at an annual celebration held on Dusshera in Bhagwangad, the most important place of religious worship for the Vanjari community, which Ms Munde represents.The priest says that the occasion can no longer be used for politics. Ms Munde's father, Gopinath Munde, who died in 2014 used his speeches at the temple for political messaging.10 days ago, Ms Munde's supporters and those of the priest clashed with each other.In the audio tapes, a voice resembling that of Ms Munde warns that fake cases will be filed against the priest's supporters and that she will use money power to get her way.

Responding to the audio clip, opposition leader and local political rival, Dhananjay Munde said this is "blatant abuse" of power by the minister and that she should be immediately removed from her post.Earlier this year, Ms Munde posted selfies during her tour of drought-hit Latur, provoking fierce criticism of insensitivity.