The Maharashtra municipal election season has turned ugly with Shiv Sena (UBT) unleashing serious allegations against the BJP. Accusing the ruling party of doling out cash and freebies to buy voter loyalty, Uddhav Thackeray’s faction has ignited a political firestorm just weeks before voting begins.

At the heart of the row are reports of BJP activists distributing envelopes stuffed with money and grocery kits in slum areas and low-income housing societies. ‘This is not governance; it’s outright corruption of the ballot box,’ thundered Aaditya Thackeray, former Maharashtra minister and Shiv Sena (UBT) leader, while addressing supporters in Mumbai’s Dharavi.

Eyewitnesses quoted by Shiv Sena claim the distributions occur under the cover of ‘community welfare programs.’ Photos circulating on social media show BJP flags alongside aid packets, prompting demands for immediate EC probes. The party has submitted a detailed memorandum to the Chief Electoral Officer, listing over 50 locations across the state.

Responding sharply, BJP’s state unit labeled the accusations ‘election-time fiction’ designed to derail their momentum. ‘Our focus is on roads, water, and sanitation – real issues that Shiv Sena ignores while crying wolf,’ said a senior BJP functionary. They accused UBT of similar malpractices in past polls.

These claims come amid high stakes for both parties. Control of BMC alone is worth billions in contracts and influence. Analysts say voter inducements have long plagued local elections here, often evading strict oversight due to sheer scale.

Shiv Sena (UBT) is mobilizing its cadre for vigilance drives, urging citizens to report suspicious activities via a dedicated helpline. As accusations fly, the real test lies with enforcement agencies. Maharashtra’s civic polls, pivotal for state power dynamics, now risk being overshadowed by this bribery brouhaha. Voters, weary of such tactics, may ultimately decide the narrative.