Vinayak Raut Targets BVA, BJP At Shiv Sena's ₹5.55 Lakh Dahi Handi In Virar

Virar, India witnessed a fierce political clash as senior Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Vinayak Raut denounced his rivals the Bahujan Vikas Aghadi (BVA) and the ruling BJP at a grand Dahi Handi event, christened 'Dahi Handi 2026'. The event, organized by UBT office-bearer Vivek Pawar, boasted a prize of ₹5,55,555 and marked Pawar's inaugural year.

Raut's fiery speech targeted BVA chief Hitendram Thakur, alleging the party's influence in the Vasai-Virar Municipal Corporation (VVMC) had dwindled to a mere shadow of its former self. Raut claimed BVA's control over VVMC is purely nominal, as it now relies on the BJP and the Urban Development Department to operate. He accused the government of deliberately obstructing development in Vasai-Virar, citing widespread corruption in pothole repairs and garbage management.

Raut further accused local BJP MPs and MLAs of prioritizing personal gain over public welfare, alleging a split within the party, with factions under Narendra Modi, Amit Shah, Chandrashekhar Bawankule, and Devendra Fadnavis. The Shiv Sena leader also raised concerns over Palghar district, alleging that local lands are being annexed to build a Fourth Mumbai, effectively ceding the region to Gujarat.

Raut criticized smart electricity meters, alleging they are a scheme to loot the public, and called for a state-wide protest against their installation. He also accused the BJP of deliberately delaying civic panel elections to suppress local administration and install its own mayor in the Vasai-Virar Municipal Corporation.