TOI News Desk
NEW DELHI: A dramatic scene unfolded in Palghar’s Nalasopara Assembly constituency on Tuesday when workers from the Bahujan Vikas Aghadi (BVA) created a commotion outside a hotel where BJP National General Secretary Vinod Tawde was holding a meeting. The workers, led by BVA MLA Kshitij Thakur, accused the BJP of distributing money.
Responding to the allegations, Tawde firmly denied the claims, emphasizing his commitment to transparency. “A meeting of MLAs from Nalasopara was underway to discuss the model code of conduct, sealing of voting machines, and handling objections. Appa Thakur and Kshitij misunderstood and thought we were distributing money,” Tawde said.
He called for an impartial investigation, adding, “Let the Election Commission and Police inquire, and let them get CCTV footage. I have been in the party for 40 years. Appa Thakur and Kshitij know me, the entire party knows me. I believe the Election Commission should conduct a thorough investigation.”
Allegations and reactions
Speaking to reporters, Thakur alleged that Tawde came to Virar with Rs 5 crore to influence voters. “I urge the Election Commission to take action against him and the BJP. The hotel’s CCTV recording was initially deactivated, showing complicity,” Thakur claimed.
A purported video of the altercation between Tawde and BVA leaders has surfaced on social media, fueling the controversy. Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut also weighed in, saying, “Thakur has done what the Election Commission should have done. EC officials scrutinize us, yet BJP leaders face no such checks.”
Refuting the allegations, BJP leader and MLC Pravin Darekar dismissed them as a “publicity stunt.” He said, “The MVA has already lost the game and is resorting to baseless claims because they know they are heading for defeat.”
High-stakes election
The incident comes as Maharashtra heads into the final stages of its high-stakes Assembly elections. With campaigning wrapped up on Monday, voting is scheduled for Wednesday, November 20, followed by counting on November 23.
The polls will decide the fate of the 288-seat Maharashtra Assembly, with the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance and Congress-led Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) locked in a fierce battle. The election has been marked by shifting alliances, caste dynamics, and emotional appeals, making it a pivotal moment in the state’s political landscape.