Mumbai, Jan 16 (NationPress) The head of the Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee, Harshwardhan Sapkal, claimed on Friday that the BJP-led Mahayuti's win in the municipal corporation elections stemmed from fraudulent voting, the distribution of money, and the support of the Election Commission.

"The BJP’s triumph in Mumbai is a consequence of manipulation. From the creation of wards to the ‘PADU’ machine and the ink scam -- everything was orchestrated. The Election Commission needs to cease its attempts at whitewashing and stop operating at the BJP's command. The BJP has lost all sense of morality and shame. It is evident that democracy is currently in a state of crisis," he stated.

"The prevalence of monetary distribution, fake voters, candidate sabotage, and the Election Commission’s inadequate management highlights that free and fair elections are not being conducted. Dictatorship grows and eventually collapses; the moment for that collapse is approaching. With Uttarayan having started yesterday, the forthcoming times will be challenging for the BJP and its allies," he remarked.

In light of this, Sapkal pointed out that while the Congress party's performance in the municipal elections may not have been entirely satisfactory, the party engaged in an ideological struggle, and with the public's trust and the commitment of its workers, the Congress is set to become the largest opposition party in the state.

"Reports suggest Congress could secure mayoral positions in five cities, achieve 350 councillors, and share governance in ten additional cities," he noted.

Sapkal mentioned that the municipal elections took place during the Sankranti festival. Congress has now ascended to the position of the second-largest party in the state. Where feasible, leveraging its own strength or forming alliances, Congress contested the elections to broaden its ideological and organizational reach.

"Despite the ruling BJP-led coalition utilizing substantial funds and engaging in fraudulent voting, Congress workers stood resolutely against the BJP's tactics without yielding. This is a victory for our workers, and we take pride in those who fought. I extend my congratulations to the victorious candidates and our workers. This is a time of struggle and ideological contention, and Congress remains devoted to this cause. Undeterred by setbacks, we are prepared for the next challenge," he concluded.