Political Tensions Rise, BJP Candidate Mihir Kotecha's Campaign Vehicle Vandalised in Mumbai

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Mihir Kotecha’s campaign vehicle was vandalized in Mumbai on Sunday by unknown individuals, creating tension among his workers. Condemning the attack, Kotecha appealed to party workers to maintain peace. He alleged that opposition parties were responsible for the vandalism and urged his party workers to fight against communal forces constitutionally. He also paid tribute to Dr BR Ambedkar on his birth anniversary on Sunday.

Kotecha, an MLA from the Mulund constituency, is now contesting the Lok Sabha election 2024 from the Mumbai North East seat. He began campaigning for the Lok Sabha polls immediately after his name was declared by the party high command.

Taking to social media after Sunday’s attack, Kotecha stated, “I condemn the vandalism of my campaign vehicle by anti-social elements. Today is Dr. Ambedkar’s birth anniversary. It is ironic that instead of taking up the fight constitutionally, the opposition is busy inciting youth and creating communal tension. I urge Mahayuti workers to stay calm and continue working.”

Earlier in the day, Kotecha offered floral tributes to the Babasaheb Ambedkar on his birth anniversary at Mata Ramabai Ambedkar Nagar, Ghatkopar East. On this occasion, attendees chanted “Jai Bhim” as a tribute. Kotecha also prayed before the statues of Tathagata Gautam Buddha and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

The Mumbai North East seat is witnessing a straight fight this time between the BJP and Shiv Sena UBT. Kotecha has been challenged by Sanjay Dina Patil, who represented the same constituency as an MP when he was with the NCP. Kotecha, who became an MLA for the first time in 2019, has been given the ticket by the party based on his performance in the state Assembly polls.

Kotecha has always taken a strong stand against the Uddhav Thackeray-led MVA government. He was the first to raise the issue of possible irregularities in the purchasing process of electric buses by the BEST department of BMC. He also questioned the Shiv Sena (UBT)-led BMC about possible irregularities in street furniture.