Nagpur, Jan 15 (NationPress) Intensifying his criticism of Raj and Uddhav Thackeray in light of disturbing reports of election-related violence, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis issued a grave caution on Thursday, stating that any effort to instill fear during the Municipal Elections would lead to severe police repercussions.

These remarks followed a dangerous late-night incident where BJP candidate Bhushan Shingane was attacked in Nagpur’s Ward 11. Fadnavis paid a visit to Shingane’s home in the Gorewada locality to check on his well-being and took this opportunity to convey a powerful political message to opposing factions.

Fadnavis specifically targeted the group he referred to as the “so-called Bhagwa Brigade,” frequently associated with the Thackeray-led factions, questioning their selective visibility during the elections. “Is this Bhagwa Brigade only active in certain areas? Why are they absent in Malvani or other high-tension polling stations? Where are they?” he inquired.

Rejecting assertions that the opposition can still intimidate voters, the Chief Minister warned that any such efforts would be decisively countered. “They lack the ability to instill fear now. If they attempt it, the police will take action (thokun kadhtil). This will not be tolerated anywhere in Maharashtra, including Mumbai,” he stated to the press.

Fadnavis also accused the opposition of trying to lower voter turnout under the guise of identifying fraudulent voters. “The responsibility of spotting duplicate voters lies with the Election Commission and polling agents inside the booths. Who are these individuals to instigate fights? Their sole aim is to reduce voting percentages,” he claimed.

The situation escalated after unidentified assailants reportedly attacked BJP candidate Bhushan Shingane around midnight. The Chief Minister assured that strict measures would be taken, stating, “Those responsible for the attack on Bhushan Shingane will face justice. If anyone attempts to rule through fear, the police will respond appropriately,” he warned.

As Nagpur and various other key cities in Maharashtra prepare for elections, tensions between the ruling MahaYuti alliance and the Thackeray brothers continue to shape the political landscape, prompting increased security in sensitive areas.

Earlier in the day, after a duplicate voter was allegedly apprehended at a polling station at Chhabildas School in Mumbai’s Dadar locality, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) leader Raj Thackeray urged his party members and Shiv Sena activists to stay vigilant during the voting process.