By | Arvind Jadhav
Mumbai – Maharashtra Capital witnessed a day of high political drama as the INDIA Bloc alliance and the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) jointly staged a massive protest march in the heart of the city today. The agitation, which began near Fashion Street and culminated at the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) headquarters, saw thousands of supporters, banners, and sloganeering against the Election Commission and the state government.
The opposition has alleged that over 90 lakh fake voters have been deliberately added to Maharashtra’s voter rolls, calling it an attempt to manipulate upcoming local body elections. They demanded an immediate correction of the electoral list, transparency from the Election Commission, and stricter checks before any civic polls are announced.
MNS Chief Raj Thackeray declared, “This is not just a technical issue — this is the murder of democracy. How can an election be fair when crores of fake names exist on the rolls?”
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut added that the protest represents “the voice of every voter who has been cheated.” He warned that if the Election Commission fails to act, opposition parties will move to court.
Congress leaders also joined the INDIA Bloc’s protest, describing it as a “people’s movement for fair democracy.” Senior Congress representative Nana Patole said, “The BJP is scared of losing Mumbai. That’s why they’re playing with voter lists. We won’t allow this conspiracy to succeed.”
The state government, however, dismissed the charges. Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis hit back, saying the opposition is “creating false panic to stay relevant.” He added, “The voter rolls are verified as per procedure. If they have proof, let them show it in court instead of shouting on the streets.”
Security was tightened across South Mumbai as police deployed heavy forces along the march route. Traffic diversions were enforced at CSMT, Marine Drive, and Azad Maidan. Despite minor scuffles, the rally remained largely peaceful.
Political observers say today’s protest could mark a turning point in Maharashtra’s pre-election atmosphere, uniting otherwise fragmented opposition parties under one banner of electoral integrity. The INDIA Bloc is expected to submit a detailed memorandum to the State Election Commission by evening, while MNS has hinted at further statewide agitations if their demands are ignored.
