Strict Security Checks on Campaigning Leaders’ Helicopters Amid Maharashtra Assembly Polls.

As Maharashtra’s Assembly elections approach on November 20, strict security protocols are in place to ensure transparency and fairness. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s helicopter was thoroughly inspected by election officials upon his arrival in Palghar for campaign activities, as shown in a recent video. The check followed allegations from Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray, who claimed his own bags were inspected multiple times, raising concerns about potential bias against opposition leaders.

In response to Thackeray’s concerns, election authorities clarified that all campaign-related checks follow established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) under the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). These routine inspections are intended to maintain a “level playing field” by preventing the distribution of cash or gifts that could influence voter decisions. Poll officials confirmed that similar checks were conducted on helicopters and bags of several other leaders, including Deputy Chief Ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar, as well as Union Minister Nitin Gadkari.

Deputy CM Fadnavis dismissed claims of favoritism, stating, “We all comply with these inspections; it’s part of ensuring free and fair elections.” Ajit Pawar echoed this sentiment, emphasizing his full cooperation with the inspection process and expressing support for these measures to uphold electoral integrity.

Maharashtra’s Assembly election voting will be conducted on November 20, with results announced three days later.