High-Level Bag Checks Stir Controversy Ahead of Maharashtra Elections

The Election Commission's scrutiny of the helicopters and bags of top political leaders in Maharashtra, including Congress, Shiv Sena, and others, has sparked debate. These checks come as part of SOPs before the upcoming assembly elections, yet have drawn criticism over fairness amidst ongoing cash seizures.

In a move deemed a routine procedure by the Election Commission, bags and helicopters of prominent political figures in Maharashtra were subjected to scrutiny on Thursday. National Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Shiv Sena (UBT) Chief Uddhav Thackeray, and Maharashtra Congress President Nana Patole were among those checked, sparking political debate.

The inspections were carried out in various locations, including Nashik for the Congress leader's helicopter, while Thackeray faced checks in Ahmednagar. Meanwhile, Patole's bags and helicopter underwent examination in Tiroda as he campaigned for an NCP-SCP candidate in Goregaon.

These checks are part of the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) ahead of the Maharashtra assembly elections set for November 20. The controversial measures follow the reported seizure of Rs 2.5 crore in cash by Thane Police, underscoring the heightened vigilance to ensure electoral integrity.

(With inputs from agencies.)