Why is he running away: Milind Deora on debate invitation to Aaditya Thackeray

Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde) MP Milind Deora has alleged Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders of distributing money and installing cameras in societies to influence voters.

In Short

• Deora accuses Aaditya Thackeray of avoiding public debate
• Claims Thackeray's party engaged in unethical election practices
• Alleges money distribution and camera installation to influence voters

Shiv Sena MP and Worli Assembly candidate Milind Deora accused Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray and his party of avoiding a public debate and engaging in unethical election practices.

“A few days ago, I invited Aaditya Thackeray to debate the future of Worli, Mumbai, and Maharashtra. He often speaks about strengthening democracy and the need for debates during elections. So, why is he avoiding a debate now?” Deora questioned.

Deora further alleged that Sena (UBT) leaders were distributing money and installing cameras in societies to influence voters.

“One of his party leaders was seen in a video admitting to providing cameras to buy votes. He claimed he couldn’t name the leader behind it due to the election code of conduct,” Deora said.

Thackeray has not responded to the debate challenge or the allegations as of now.

Deora earlier described his contest against Aaditya Thackeray from Worli Assembly seat as a "political battle" and accused the latter of hindering development in Mumbai and Maharashtra through his "speed-breaker politics".

In the Sena vs Sena battle, Deora, who left the Congress and joined the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena in January, will face off against Thackeray, the son of former Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, from Worli seat.

Worli has been a stronghold of the Shiv Sena (UBT) faction and was convincingly won by the junior Thackeray in the 2019 Assembly polls.