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Tensions Escalate in Virar as BVA Accuses BJP Leader Vinod Tawde of Vote-Buying

Virar, Mumbai – A heated confrontation erupted at Hotel Vivanta in Virar East, involving members of the Bahujan Vikas Aghadi (BVA) and BJP representatives. The incident, spearheaded by BVA leaders Hitendra Thakur and Nallasopara MLA Kshitij Thakur, has sparked controversy and heightened political tensions ahead of the elections.

The altercation began when BVA activists accused BJP General Secretary Vinod Tawde of arriving in Virar with ₹5 crore, allegedly intended for distribution to BJP's Nallasopara constituency candidate Rajan Naik. BVA workers interrupted a meeting between Tawde and Naik at the hotel, claiming money was being handed out. Although police searched Tawde's vehicle, no cash or evidence supporting the claims was found.

Political Allegations and Reactions

BJP leaders vehemently denied the accusations, calling them baseless. Pravin Darekar, a senior BJP leader, dismissed the claims, stating, "The allegation of distributing money is laughable. BVA is trying to build a narrative because they fear losing the elections."

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut also commented on the incident, remarking, “The work that should have been done by the Election Commission was instead handled by the Thakurs.”

Meanwhile, Kshitij Thakur alleged the discovery of a diary containing records of transactions worth ₹15 crore, further fueling the controversy. His father, Hitendra Thakur, accused Tawde of repeatedly calling him with apologies, although BJP representatives have not addressed this claim directly.

Police and Administrative Action

Following the confrontation, Mira Bhayander Vasai Virar police deployed forces to maintain order and escort Tawde from the premises amidst growing protests. Palghar Collector Govind Bodke confirmed that an FIR would be registered against Tawde for entering Virar less than 48 hours before polling, a violation of election rules since Tawde is not a registered voter in the area.

Bodke added that searches of Tawde’s vehicles, luggage, and the hotel were being conducted. The BJP leader was subsequently asked to leave Vasai Virar to avoid further escalation.

The Larger Political Picture

The incident sheds light on the growing rivalry between the BJP and the BVA, a regional powerhouse led by the Thakur family. BVA, which controls three MLA seats, often aligns with the ruling coalition but has maintained a distinct local identity. Hitendra Thakur is contesting the Nallasopara seat, while his son Kshitij seeks re-election in Vasai.

This clash highlights the high-stakes nature of the elections and the deep-rooted tensions between regional and national parties vying for control in the Palghar district.

As investigations continue, both parties remain steadfast in their claims, setting the stage for a contentious election battle in the region.