Nashik Sees Political Tensions Over Alleged Money Distribution
Parts of Nashik city experienced tense moments on Thursday afternoon. Supporters from different political parties engaged in heated arguments. The main issue revolved around the alleged distribution of money during the election period.
Clash in Savtanagar Area
In the Savtanagar area, a significant incident unfolded. Mukesh Shahane, an independent candidate from Ward 29(A), visited Ward 25(A). He went near the office of BJP candidate Sudhakar Badgujar. Shahane reportedly received information that Badgujar was distributing money to voters.
Shahane had previously been a member of the BJP. He left the party after Deepak, Badgujar's son, received the ticket to contest from Ward 29(A). Around 12:30 PM, Shahane arrived at the location. He was accompanied by a Shiv Sena (Shinde) candidate from Ward 25(A). Both candidates brought their supporters with them.
Although Badgujar was not present at his office, the two candidates argued with his supporters. The argument quickly escalated over the money distribution claims. As tensions rose, the Ambad police rushed to the spot. Officers carried out a mild lathicharge to disperse the gathering crowd in Savtanagar.
Senior officers from Zone 2 of the city police commissionerate stated that they brought the situation under control immediately. Police escorted Shahane back to his own ward to prevent further disturbances.
Rumors Spread in Jail Road Area
Meanwhile, rumors began circulating in the Jail Road area of Nashik Road. People claimed that stone pelting occurred at the office of BJP candidate Vishal Sangamnere from Ward 18. This news prompted supporters of Sangamnere and other candidates from the same ward to gather in the area.
Nashik Road Police Inspector Jeetendra Sapkale and his team quickly responded. They rushed to the location and successfully dispersed the crowd before any major incident could occur.
Cash Found in Candidate's Car
In a separate development, election officers discovered cash amounting to Rs 2 lakh in a car. The vehicle belonged to BJP candidate Dinkar Adhav from Ward 17 in the Takli area of Nashik East.
News spread that Adhav was distributing this money among voters. Election officials promptly seized the cash for further investigation.
Later, Adhav addressed the media to explain the situation. He stated that he had sold some agricultural produce the day before. Adhav claimed he was unaware that the cash from the sale remained in his car.
Police Confirm No Formal Complaints
Senior police officials acknowledged that minor scuffles took place during these incidents. However, they emphasized that no one came forward to register any formal complaints about the clashes or the money distribution allegations.
The police maintained vigilance throughout the city to prevent further escalation. They ensured that the election process continued without major disruptions despite the tense atmosphere.
