Late-night calls and inducement charges spark controversy in Maharashtra civic elections
The Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) has accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of distributing cash and other inducements to voters just hours before polling in the Maharashtra civic elections. Party leaders claimed that phone calls offering money continued until 4 am on polling day, alleging that the BJP “rained money” across constituencies to influence voters.
The party raised these allegations from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, where leaders said BJP workers actively reached out to voters and candidates during the final hours before voting began.
Cash Distribution Alleged Across Mumbai Metropolitan Region
Shiv Sena (UBT) and other opposition parties alleged that similar activities took place across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, including Thane, Navi Mumbai, Kalyan-Dombivli, Vasai-Virar, and nearby civic areas.
According to the allegations, party workers distributed cash packets, saris, silver items, and household appliances to voters. Videos showing envelopes of cash being handed out circulated widely on social media, triggering complaints to election officials.
Election Commission flying squads reportedly seized cash from vehicles during late-night checks, adding to concerns over violations of election norms.
Uddhav Thackeray Accuses BJP of Misusing Power
Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray accused the BJP and ruling alliance of misusing administrative power to gain advantage. He added that authorities ignored complaints against the ruling party, while acting selectively against opposition workers.
Thackeray also said that such practices harm democracy and show panic ahead of important civic contests.
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Tensions Rise in Kalyan-Dombivli as Police Step In
In Kalyan-Dombivli, Shiv Sena candidates claimed BJP workers distributed cash along with election pamphlets. Consequently, heated arguments broke out between party workers, requiring police intervention in some areas.
However, the BJP denied the charges. They argued the videos and allegations were false and politically motivated.
Other Opposition Parties Raise Similar Allegations
The accusations extended beyond Shiv Sena (UBT). Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray accused the ruling Mahayuti alliance, which includes the BJP and the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, of offering money to voters and candidates.
Raj Thackeray alleged that in some areas, people offered up to ₹5,000 per vote and also tried to induce candidates to withdraw their nominations.
Election Commission’s Role Questioned
Opposition leaders criticised the State Election Commission (SEC) for allowing door-to-door voter contact even after the official campaign period ended. They argued that this relaxation helped facilitate cash distribution under the pretext of voter outreach.
The opposition demanded strict enforcement of election rules to ensure free and fair polling.
BJP Denies All Charges
The BJP categorically denied all allegations and described them as baseless and politically driven. Party leaders said the accusations aimed to distract voters and undermine the credibility of the ruling party ahead of the polls.
High-Stakes Civic Polls Underway
The Maharashtra civic elections are underway on January 15, covering 29 municipal corporations, including major urban centres. Political parties view these elections as a crucial test of public mood ahead of upcoming state and national contests.
