In a notable development, Maharashtra Minister and Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) leader Sanjay Shirsat confirmed on Thursday that he has received an Income Tax (I-T) notice, along with Shiv Sena MP Shrikant Shinde. Speaking to reporters, Shirsat clarified that the notice is part of a regular scrutiny process and dismissed any claims of political vendetta behind the move.
Shirsat stated that the Income Tax Department asked him to submit a response by July 9, but he has sought an extension of time to file a reply. “We will face any inquiry. It’s part of the law. We have nothing to hide. This is not a political issue,” he said.
He emphasized that such notices are standard procedure, and they do not necessarily indicate wrongdoing or targeted action. “I won’t say that Shiv Sena is being suppressed. Agencies work independently, and if a notice is issued, it means they’re doing their job,” he added.
His reaction comes amid a broader political narrative where opposition parties have often alleged misuse of central agencies like the Income Tax Department, ED, and CBI to harass leaders critical of the ruling party. However, Shirsat distanced himself from that view, taking a more cooperative stance and urging others to do the same.
Notably, Shirsat is part of the Shinde-led Shiv Sena, which is allied with the BJP and Ajit Pawar’s NCP in the Mahayuti alliance ruling Maharashtra. His statements are being seen as an attempt to project transparency and prevent unnecessary controversy within the coalition.
