Kalyan-Dombivali Civic Polls: Shiv Sena UBT Raises Alarm Over Missing Corporators

Following the Kalyan-Dombivali civic polls, Shiv Sena UBT has reported two missing corporators, Madhur Mhatre and Kirti Dhone. Concerns over their safety and public trust have prompted a police investigation into their disappearance.

On Friday, the Shiv Sena UBT's Kalyan unit approached the police, reporting that two of its newly-elected corporators were unreachable. Despite contacting family, relatives, and party officials, Madhur Umesh Mhatre and Kirti Rajan Dhone remain out of contact. The party, led by Uddhav Thackeray, secured 11 seats in the Kalyan Dombivali civic elections held on January 15.

Sharad Shivraj Patil, the Shiv Sena UBT Kalyan district chief, filed a complaint at Kolsewadi police station. He requested a missing person case be registered and a thorough investigation conducted. Patil expressed concerns over the corporators' safety and highlighted potential threats to democratic values and public trust.

Investigation Initiated Amid Concerns

The phones of Mhatre and Dhone are switched off, raising suspicions of possible pressure or criminal activity. Senior inspector Ganesh Nayinde confirmed that an investigation has commenced following Patil's complaint. The sudden disappearance has sparked worries about their personal security and broader implications for law and order.

In the recent civic polls, the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena emerged victorious with 52 seats in the 122-member body. The BJP closely followed with 51 seats. Meanwhile, Shiv Sena UBT secured 11 seats, placing third. Other parties like Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) won five seats, Congress two, and NCP SP one.

Political Dynamics in KDMC

The political landscape in KDMC has shifted as Shiv Sena and MNS have allied post-elections. They parted ways with their pre-poll partners BJP and Shiv Sena UBT respectively. This new alliance marks a significant change in local political dynamics.

A group of seven corporators from Shiv Sena UBT has been officially registered with the Konkan Commissioner. Umesh Borgaonkar has been appointed as the leader of this group. The situation remains tense as authorities continue their search for the missing corporators.

The ongoing investigation aims to uncover any underlying issues related to their disappearance. Authorities are considering various possibilities including fraud or kidnapping. The outcome of this probe will be crucial in understanding the circumstances surrounding this incident.

With inputs from PTI