Tue Nov 19 10:16:27 UTC 2024: ## BJP Leader Vinod Tawde Accused of Bribery in Virar; Police Involved
**Virar, Maharashtra:** A major political controversy erupted in Virar, Maharashtra, after allegations surfaced that BJP leader Vinod Tawde distributed money during a meeting at the Vivanta Hotel in Manvelpada. The allegations were made by members of the Bahujan Vikas Aghadi (BVA).
The incident allegedly involved Tawde, BJP candidate Rajan Naik, and other BJP officials. BVA workers who were present claimed to have witnessed the distribution of cash. Current MLA Kshitij Thakur was also reportedly present at the hotel, and a video appears to show a heated argument between him and Tawde.
Thakur alleges Tawde arrived with ₹5 crore in cash and two diaries containing details of a ₹15 crore distribution. Following the allegations, the Election Commission reportedly searched Tawde’s vehicle.
Opposition parties reacted strongly, with Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) leader Sanjay Raut criticizing the BJP and praising Thakur’s actions, suggesting it was a job the Election Commission should have done.
Hitendra Thakur, also involved in the incident, claims Tawde repeatedly called him, pleading for help and admitting wrongdoing. He stated Tawde made 25 calls. A police complaint has been filed, and the investigation is ongoing. The Tawde camp, however, claims that if the Election Commission’s search was insufficient, any subsequent actions by Thakur’s workers could be considered misconduct. The situation remains tense, with police investigating the matter.
First Piper 