Allegations Rock BEST Credit Society Election Amid Possible MNS-Shiv Sena Alliance

Sandeep Deshpande, a leader of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), has levelled serious allegations against competitors in the BEST credit society election, claiming financial inducements were used to sway voters. The election, overseen by the Shiv Sena (UBT), is underway, with participants comprising BEST employees.

This development fuels discussions about a possible political coalition between Uddhav Thackeray's Shiv Sena (UBT) and Raj Thackeray's MNS ahead of upcoming local body elections. Deshpande's accusation involved the distribution of pamphlets containing Rs 500 notes, an alleged tactic to buy votes.

In response to these allegations, Deshpande announced plans to file a formal complaint with the election officer. The burgeoning alliance, labelled the 'Utkarsh panel,' aims to consolidate their presence in the civic transport and electricity sector, despite the MNS's current minority standing.

(With inputs from agencies.)