A major political clash has erupted in Maharashtra ahead of municipal polls, with Shiv Sena (UBT) accusing the BJP of rampant vote buying through cash and material distribution. The allegations, backed by local testimonies, threaten to derail the BJP’s campaign strategy.
Leaders from Uddhav Thackeray’s group detailed a pattern: BJP booths disguised as aid camps handing out ₹2000 packets and household goods in Mumbai suburbs and Nagpur outskirts. ‘This is how BJP buys power when it can’t win hearts,’ Priyanka Chaturvedi, MP, asserted in a viral video statement.
The timing couldn’t be worse for BJP, riding high on state government achievements. Shiv Sena (UBT) has flooded the EC with FIR demands, citing IPC sections on bribery. Social media is abuzz with user-generated evidence, amplifying the uproar.
In defense, BJP spokesperson accused rivals of psychological warfare. ‘Our door-to-door service is welfare, not wooing. Shiv Sena perfected this game during their BMC rule,’ they fired back, releasing counter-videos of alleged UBT violations.
Contextually, these polls test alliances: Shinde’s Sena-BJP vs. UBT-MVA. Billions in municipal budgets make every ward a battleground. Observers predict increased surveillance, with flying squads on high alert.
Public sentiment appears mixed; while some decry corruption, others view handouts pragmatically amid inflation woes. Shiv Sena (UBT) aims to galvanize youth and middle-class outrage through digital campaigns.
Ultimately, this saga highlights persistent challenges in India’s electoral ecosystem. As Maharashtra votes, the shadow of money power looms large, challenging the ECI to restore faith. The outcome could reshape local governance for years.