Maharashtra: Shiv Sena Expels 2 Officials After Money Showered Before Portrait Of CM Shinde’s Mentor

Thane Shiv Sena MP Naresh Mhaske issued an order dismissing the two-party office-bearers involved, though their specific positions were not disclosed.

File photo of Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde

Source : CM Eknath Shinde

The Shiv Sena has expelled two party leaders from the Thane unit after a video showed people dancing and throwing currency notes in front of a portrait of the late Anand Dighe, mentor to Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.

The viral video, which surfaced after the Ganesh festival on September 12, depicted local party members celebrating and showering money at Anand Ashram, the former base of the Shiv Sena's Thane unit.

According to PTI, CM Shinde, and Thane Shiv Sena MP Naresh Mhaske criticised the behaviour as “highly unpleasant” and inconsistent with the respectful way Dighe was known to observe such events.

On Saturday night, Mhaske issued an order dismissing the two-party office-bearers involved, though their specific positions were not disclosed. The Shiv Sena has also stressed the need to maintain proper conduct during celebrations.

Maharashtra Assembly Poll Schedule

Dropping a hint over the Maharashtra assembly election, Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde said on Sunday that the state assembly elections are likely to be held in the second week of November.

"Elections are likely in the second week of November. A two-phase election would be preferable. Merit and good strike rate will be the criteria for seat-sharing among the Mahayuti allies," PTI quoted Shinde as saying.

Shinde confirmed that the finalisation of seat sharing between Mahayuti allies BJP and NCP will take place in the next 8-10 days.

According to a report by HT, the BJP is aiming to contest 150-160 seats. if this occurs, the NCP and Shiv Sena would be limited to securing only 128-138 seats combined. Shinde expressed optimism about strong support for his government among women.

He further added that 1.6 crore women have so far received financial assistance under the government's Ladki Bahin scheme. "We plan to reach out to 2.5 crore women," he said.