With the announcement of Lok Sabha election date, the model code of conduct came into force across India including Maharashtra. Political parties have already started violating the model code of conduct. A letter has been forwarded by Malad corporator Vinod Shelar to the Election Commission and returning officer of North Mumbai Constituency against Congress MP Sanjay Nirupam for violating the model code of conduct. From now onwards, political parties can’t make any announcements to induce voters and cannot inaugurate any project. Shelar has alleged that Nirupam had laid out the foundation of the BMC Road at many places like Manshu Road, Govind Nagar Road, Rani Sati Marg and Pushpa Park Road number 1 and 2 in the Malad constituency. It was an attempt by Nirupam to garner political mileage ahead of the Lok Sabha election.
Talking to AV, Vinod Shelar, BJP corporator said, “The model code of conduct came into force at 10.30 am. At around 11.00 am, Sanjay Nirupam started laying the foundation stone of various roads to be constructed in the suburbs. We have already taken this matter with the Election Commission to take appropriate action against him for violating the mode of code of conduct.”
Shelar alleged that that the money for the project was allocated through his party funds. His party worker had laid a foundation stone of the project three days ago.
Shelar alleged that Sanjay Nirupam assaulted him and broke his mobile when urged him to skip the event as BJP had performed the development work. He said, “As Nirupam arrived, I approached him and requested him to refrain from participating in the foundation. Later a heated argument erupted between us. In a fit of rage, Nirupam pushed me and smashed my mobile.”
Afternoon Voice possess a copy of the letter forwarded by Vinod Shelar to the Election Commission against Sanjay Nirupam. A police complaint has been registered against Sanjay Nirupam at Dindoshi Police station.
DCP Pravin Patil, Zone XII said, “We have received a complaint filed by corporator Vinod Shelar against MP Sanjay Nirupam for breaking his mobile. We have registered a case under section 427 and 504 of the Indian Penal code. As of now we are investigating this matter.”
On the other hand, Sanjay Nirupam defended all the allegations made against him for violating the model code of conduct and said, “I was merely present at the spot and my party workers and supporters had participated in the event. Shelar has lodged a false complaint against me as I did not break the mobile.”
