Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS Launch Joint Squad to Monitor Voters in Maharashtra Civic Elections
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut made a significant announcement on Tuesday. He revealed that his party has teamed up with the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) to form a special joint squad. This squad will actively monitor polling activities during the upcoming Maharashtra civic elections.
Squad to Target Dual and Bogus Voters from Early Morning
Raut spoke to reporters in Mumbai, providing details about the squad's operations. He stated that the joint team will begin its work at 7 am on polling day. The squad plans to gather information about dual voters on a region-wise basis. Once they identify such voters, the team will handle them appropriately according to Raut.
The Shiv Sena (UBT) leader issued a veiled threat to those he described as dual and bogus voters. He emphasized that the squad's actions aim to ensure fair voting practices during the crucial civic elections.
Raut Defends Squad's Actions as Legal Response
When questioned about potential legal consequences for physically confronting voters, Raut offered a strong defense. He argued that taking action against those who violate voting laws does not create a law and order situation. According to Raut, bogus voting itself falls outside the definition of proper law and order.
"Thrashing those who do not fit in the law does not amount to creating a law and order situation," Raut told reporters. He further questioned, "Does bogus voting fit in the definition of law and order?"
Background of the Shiv Sena (UBT)-MNS Alliance
Raut's remarks follow similar statements from MNS president Raj Thackeray. Thackeray has been campaigning actively for municipal elections in Mumbai and other cities across Maharashtra. The Shiv Sena (UBT), led by former Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray, has joined forces with the MNS for these elections.
The two parties are collaborating specifically for the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections. They are also working together for other civic bodies throughout the state. Elections for the BMC and 28 additional municipal corporations are scheduled for Thursday.
Mumbai's municipal authority holds particular importance as the richest in India. It ranks among the wealthiest civic bodies in all of Asia, making these elections especially significant.
Thackeray Cousins Reunite for Civic Polls
This alliance marks a notable reunion between the Thackeray cousins. Raj Thackeray originally split from the Shiv Sena in 2005. He went on to form the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena the following year in 2006.
The undivided Shiv Sena previously controlled the BMC for an impressive 25-year period. Their leadership spanned from 1997 until the party's split in 2022. This historical context adds weight to the current collaboration between the two factions.
The joint squad announcement comes at a critical moment as Maharashtra prepares for widespread civic elections. Voters across the state will participate in choosing their local representatives this week.
