Thane civic polls: Police intervene as supporters of two candidates clash

Thane: Supporters of two candidates clashed during the civic polls in Thane on Thursday, prompting the police to intervene, an official said on Friday.

High drama erupted in ward number 3 in the Manpada area on Thursday evening after a confrontation between supporters of former mayor Meenakshi Shinde, the official Shiv Sena nominee, and independent candidate Bhushan Bhoir (a Shiv Sena rebel).

Meenakshi Shinde alleged that Bhoir had mobilised armed persons to incite violence. Bhoir’s camp, however, accused Shinde’s group of throwing chilli powder in their candidate’s eyes.

The situation escalated when a bus carrying ballot boxes was intercepted by protesters, leading to attempts to vandalise vehicles.

Local MP Naresh Mhaske, who visited the spot, said, “I have reached here to create an atmosphere of peace and to gather information regarding the incident involving Meenakshi Shinde.”

Thane DCP (Zone-5) Prashant Kadam said the situation was now under control.

“Whatever dispute there was between the two groups, the police have mediated and calmed down the matter. All ballot boxes have reached the strongroom, and citizens should not believe in rumours,” he told the media.

A heavy police contingent has been deployed in the Manpada area as authorities prepare for the counting of votes. Both candidates have traded accusations of cash distribution and intimidation throughout the election cycle.

As of now, no offence has been registered, police said.