In a startling turn of events in Ulhasnagar near Mumbai, a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA, Ganpat Gaikwad, is alleged to have fired shots at Shiv Sena faction leader Mahesh Gaikwad. The incident, which reportedly occurred inside the Hill Line Police Station on Friday night, unfolded during a conversation between the two leaders, escalating into violence over an apparent land dispute.
Details of the Incident
According to eyewitnesses, the confrontation took place in the hall of senior inspector Anil Jagtap at the Hill Line police station. The situation escalated when supporters of BJP MLA Ganpat Gaikwad engaged in a clash with Shiv Sena leader Mahesh Gaikwad. During the altercation, shots were fired, resulting in Mahesh Gaikwad and one of his supporters being hit by five bullets.
Mahesh Gaikwad sustained injuries and was promptly admitted to a hospital in Thane city. An FIR has been filed in connection with the incident, shedding light on the gravity of the situation that unfolded within the police station premises.
Injuries and Detention
Shiv Sena MLA Mahesh Gaikwad suffered severe injuries in the gunfire and is currently undergoing treatment at Jupiter Hospital in Thane. The BJP MLA, Ganpat Gaikwad, who represents the Kalyan East constituency, has been detained in connection with the incident.
Political Implications in Maharashtra Coalition
The BJP and Shiv Sena are part of the ruling coalition in Maharashtra, led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. The political clash between the BJP MLA and the Shiv Sena leader has added fuel to the existing tensions within the alliance. The incident unfolded against the backdrop of differences between Mahesh Gaikwad and Ganpat Gaikwad over various issues, including the Kalyan East Legislative Assembly’s candidature.
Allegations and Counter-Allegations
In a shocking admission, Ganpat Gaikwad stated, “Yes, I shot (him) myself. I have no regrets. If my son is being beaten in front of the police inside the police station, what will I do.” The BJP MLA claimed to have fired five rounds during the altercation.
Ganpat Gaikwad leveled serious allegations against Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, accusing him of attempting to create a “kingdom of criminals in Maharashtra.” He expressed his frustration, stating, “If Eknath Shinde is the chief minister, only criminals will be born in Maharashtra. He has made a good person like me a criminal today.”
Investigation Underway
Law enforcement authorities are actively investigating the incident, which unfolded within the confines of a police station. The Additional Commissioner of Police, Shinde, provided insights into the altercation, revealing that it originated from a complaint filed by Ganpat Gaikwad’s son regarding a land dispute. The presence of both leaders at the police station led to the heated exchange, resulting in the alleged firing.
As the investigation progresses, the incident underscores the heightened political tensions and clashes within the Maharashtra coalition, raising concerns about the stability of the alliance. The BJP MLA’s actions have triggered a fresh wave of political turmoil within the state.