As the assembly elections approach, a fierce dispute has erupted between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Shiv Sena’s Shinde faction, intensifying the already charged political atmosphere in Dombivli. Following a controversial banner incident, office bearers from both parties have engaged in a public spat that has now escalated to a formal complaint filed with the Commissioner of Police.
The controversy began when Dipesh Mhatre, state secretary of the Yuva Sena under the Shinde faction, accused his political rival of issuing threats against him through a viral social media post. In his post, Mhatre stated, “Brother, I don’t want to be Ganpat Gaikwad” and “I don’t want to be Mahesh Patil.” These comments have fueled speculation about the increasing tensions within the grand alliance as both factions vie for dominance ahead of the elections.
Mhatre’s accusations have led to a police complaint filed with Thane Police Commissioner Ashutosh Dumbre. He has called for “concrete action” against those he claims issued death threats linked to the viral post, further igniting the conflict between the two factions. The political landscape in Dombivli is particularly volatile, given that the constituency is a BJP stronghold, previously represented by Public Works Minister Ravindra Chavan, who has won with significant margins in past elections.
The rivalry has intensified following Mhatre’s decision to put up provocative banners on Chavan’s birthday, an act that has drawn ire from BJP leaders. Subsequently, a notice was issued against Mhatre, prompting him to present his case at the Vishnu Nagar police station, where he reiterated his stance on the threats.
The BJP’s reaction has been equally aggressive. BJP District President Narendra Suryavanshi and State General Secretary Shashikant Kamble met with KDMC Commissioner to address Mhatre’s actions, particularly concerning the use of the KDMC logo on his complaint letter. Given that Mhatre was a former standing committee member, the BJP leaders have questioned the legitimacy of his use of the logo during a period of administrative rule, further complicating the ongoing disputes.
As tensions mount, it remains to be seen how senior leaders from both parties will navigate this escalating situation. The Dombivli constituency is set to be a critical battleground in the upcoming assembly elections, and both the BJP and Shiv Sena’s Shinde faction are clearly vying for control. The outcome of this political clash could have significant implications for the alliances and candidate selections moving forward.
