Mumbai Confidential: A poll sequel

Nearly 50 days after the release of “Dharamveer”, a film celebrating the life of late Shiv Sena leader Anand Dighe, Maharashtra witnessed a significant political upheaval resulting in Shiv Sena’s split and Eknath Shinde becoming the state’s CM. The film portrayed Shinde as a rising figure in Hindutva, seemingly aiming to build sympathy for him before his rebellion. Shinde assumed the CM role shortly after the film’s release, and now, a sequel is scheduled for August 9, just ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections. The move is seen as another effort to garner sympathy for Shinde and justify his actions.

Rebranding Woes

A digital campaign management firm’s rebranding effort for the NCP faces resistance from some of its leaders. The firm’s call for all NCP leaders to adopt the color pink and change their social media accounts or office decor has been met with skepticism. A senior NCP minister has reportedly declined to comply with this directive, stressing that Maharashtra’s politics should prioritise the concerns of both backward and forward castes rather than emphasise showy gestures recommended by “Harvard and Oxford” returnees.

Transfer Tactics

A tehsildar who recently accused an opposition legislator and his office of intimidation tactics has been transferred to a prestigious posting in Pune district. Despite the allegations not leading to any consequences, they briefly put the opposition on the defensive. The tehsildar’s transfer to Pune now prompts speculation, suggesting more than mere coincidence.