Ahead of BMC polls: Gorhe, Parab to lead Shiv Sena defence against BJP

BJP MP Dr Kirit Somaiya and its Mumbai unit president Ashish Shelar have consistently targeted the Sena over corruption in the BMC. Last week, Somaiya had organised a Dussehra event to burn the ‘Ravan of BMC Mahapalika Mafia’. Sena activists objected strongly to this and tried to stop the programme, leading to a scuffle. Subsequently, 13 Shiv Sainiks were arrested for assault. They are in police custody till October 20.

“In BMC, all the parties — ruling and opposition — are members of the standing committee. Those talking against us should raise objections there,” said Parab.

Another Sena legislator said that decisions in the state are taken by the council of ministers, which has no members from opposition parties.
“In case of the BMC, there is no specific allegation against a single Sena leader. But there have been specific allegations against ministers in the BJP-led state government. All these allegations against Sena leaders are baseless and motivated to gain political mileage ahead of civic polls. If time comes, we will expose the BJP on certain issues,” the leader said. “We as leaders are making the party’s stand clear at various levels, so that the the common man is aware of the facts. It is to prevent the rumours being spread against the party,” said Gorhe.

Another Sena leader said that Somaiya and Shelar have been making the corruption allegations only from 2014. “Prior to that, there were no such allegations. Somaiya was elected from our votes. They should not forget this. The party will continue to give fitting replies to the BJP,” said the leader.