Shiv Sena (UBT) Leader Sanjay Raut Voices Grave Concerns Over Mumbai Civic Polls
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Friday highlighted serious irregularities in the ongoing civic elections across Mumbai. He pointed to widespread issues with voter lists and malfunctioning electronic voting machines.
Missing Voter Names and Technical Failures
Speaking to journalists, Raut expressed deep concern about the voting pattern unfolding in India's financial capital. He revealed that thousands of citizens who previously voted in Assembly elections now find their names missing from electoral rolls in constituencies where Shiv Sena (UBT), Maharashtra Navnirman Sena, or Congress hold influence.
"The EVM machines are not functioning properly," Raut stated emphatically. "The Election Commission refuses to listen to our genuine complaints."
Questioning Election Commission Meetings
Raut raised additional questions about a recent meeting between senior BJP leaders and Election Commission officials. He specifically challenged the timing of this gathering.
"Why did this meeting occur while the Model Code of Conduct remains in effect?" Raut demanded during his media interaction.
Criticism of Premature Exit Polls
The Shiv Sena (UBT) leader also criticized the early release of exit poll results. He noted that these predictions emerged even before final voting percentages were available.
"The BJP began celebrating victory prematurely," Raut observed. "We have reassured citizens they should not fear these developments."
Broader Political Context
Raut's statements come amid mounting concerns about voter accessibility and technical problems during Mumbai's municipal elections. Multiple political parties have called for enhanced monitoring of the electoral process.
Just one day earlier, on Thursday, Raut launched a sharp critique against the ruling Mahayuti alliance. He accused the Bharatiya Janata Party, Shiv Sena, and Nationalist Congress Party of forming an alliance driven solely by financial and political ambitions.
Shifting Political Atmosphere in Mumbai
Raut noted a noticeable change in Mumbai's political climate in recent days. He observed that voters are becoming increasingly conscious of their voting rights and electoral significance.
The Shiv Sena (UBT) leader further asserted that the Mahayuti alliance neglects Marathi identity in its political agenda. This perceived neglect, according to Raut, explains why Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray have united on a common platform.
"Three political parties joined forces purely for power and monetary gain," Raut declared during a press conference. "Marathi identity forms no part of their priorities. That is precisely why Raj Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray stand together to protect Marathi interests."
Raut's comprehensive critique highlights growing tensions surrounding Mumbai's civic elections as technical issues and political alignments continue to shape the electoral landscape.
