In the midst of Maharashtra’s heated election campaigns, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari’s helicopter was inspected by Election Commission (EC) officials on Tuesday after his arrival in Latur for a campaign event. This check follows two recent inspections of Shiv Sena UBT leader Uddhav Thackeray’s bags in Yavatmal and Latur, sparking controversy and claims of bias against opposition leaders.
The EC inspection of Gadkari’s helicopter was captured on video, showing officials following standard operating procedures to check for any prohibited materials that could influence voters. This protocol, EC sources clarified, is part of ensuring compliance with the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) and providing a “level playing field” as the state heads towards assembly polls on November 20.
Thackeray’s bag checks have become a focal point for political tension, with the first inspection occurring in Yavatmal on Monday and a second the following day in Latur, where he was campaigning for Shiv Sena UBT candidate Dinkar Mane in the Ausa constituency. A video shared by the Sena UBT on X (formerly Twitter) shows Thackeray visibly agitated, questioning EC officials about the repeated checks and asking for their details. In a rhetorical challenge, Thackeray asked whether similar inspections were performed on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, suggesting an uneven application of the MCC.
MVA leaders have argued that the checks are a targeted attempt to harass opposition leaders and distract from the ruling Mahayuti alliance’s campaign. Shiv Sena UBT leader Sanjay Raut voiced these concerns, accusing election authorities of selective enforcement. “The Election Commission does its work, we have no problem,” Raut stated, “but are Mahayuti leaders facing the same scrutiny for funds they bring in?” Raut’s comments underscore a growing sentiment among opposition leaders that EC measures are disproportionately affecting them.
Meanwhile, Mahayuti alliance leaders responded to Thackeray’s allegations, questioning why he was uncomfortable with routine inspections. They insisted that all political leaders must comply with EC checks as per MCC guidelines if they have nothing to hide.
The EC, in response to the escalating row, reiterated that these inspections are unbiased and routinely conducted during elections to prevent any form of electoral misconduct.