Navi Mumbai: Political activity intensified across Navi Mumbai ahead of the upcoming general elections, being held after a gap of 10.5 years, with aspiring candidates demanding that the Navi Mumbai police remain especially vigilant, increase security, and maintain law and order during the election process. For the last six to seven years, many aspiring candidates remained continuously active in their respective wards, and there was talk in political circles that crores of rupees were spent to attract voters through various social, religious and public programmes, development works and relief activities. Discussions on seat sharing between Shiv Sena, BJP and other constituent parties failed on Monday, which prompted the parties to go solo. “If anyone is facing pressure or threats to withdraw their candidature, they should contact the police. The police will maintain strict security arrangements to prevent any untoward incident during the elections,” said Pankaj Dahne of DCP, Zone-1.On the other hand, since the Mahavikas Aghadi also focused mainly on giving candidature to loyal workers, there was a feeling that many active aspiring candidates were denied candidature. Due to this, discontent was openly expressed within the party, and there were even hints of rebellion in some places. Many aspiring candidates prepared to enter the election fray as independents after not getting nominations from the parties. The recent murder of Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) leader Mangesh Kalekhe in Khopoli shook the political atmosphere across the entire state. Due to this, an atmosphere of fear spread among aspiring candidates. Office-bearers of various parties became staunch opponents of each other. Political criticism and comments reached a low level, and personal accusations and counter-accusations increased. Against this backdrop, there was a strong demand from aspiring candidates and political activists that the Navi Mumbai Police should be especially vigilant.
