Shiv Sena candidate and former mayor of Thane, Minakshi Shinde, has formally approached the Thane police following the circulation of an allegedly manipulated audio clip on social media platforms. The clip, which went viral on Friday, has sparked a political controversy in the midst of election campaigning.
The Viral Audio and Allegations
The controversial audio clip surfaced on various social media channels on Friday. It purportedly contains a phone conversation between Minakshi Shinde and one of her co-workers. In the audio, the voice, alleged to be Shinde's, is heard using abusive language and expletives. The target of the remarks are said to be a few detractors from within her own party and certain activists from her area. The clip also reportedly contains offensive references to their female relatives belonging to a native community.
The conversation is linked to an alleged dispute over an election-related issue. The viral spread of the audio has raised tensions in the local political landscape of Thane.
Shinde's Firm Denial and Counter-Allegation
Addressing the media on Friday, Minakshi Shinde, who is contesting from ward number 3, categorically denied that the voice in the clip was hers. She dismissed the audio as a fabrication and part of a malicious smear campaign orchestrated by her political opponents.
Shinde asserted that her rivals resorted to such tactics because they were unable to match her record of developmental work and her popularity among the constituents. She stated that the fake audio was a desperate attempt to tarnish her image ahead of the elections.
Police Investigation Underway
Following Shinde's complaint, the Thane police have initiated an examination of the matter. A senior police officer confirmed that complaints from both sides regarding the incident are being scrutinized.
The officer clarified that as of now, no formal First Information Report (FIR) has been registered in the case. The police are currently in the process of verifying the authenticity of the audio clip and investigating the circumstances behind its creation and viral dissemination.
This incident highlights the growing challenge of digitally altered media being used as a tool for character assassination in Indian politics, especially during the sensitive period of elections. The outcome of the police examination is awaited as it will determine the next legal steps in this contentious issue.
