Shiv Sena Dismisses Party Members Over 'Highly Unpleasant' Festivity

The Shiv Sena has dismissed two office-bearers from its Thane unit after a video showed them dancing and showering currency notes in front of a portrait of the late Anand Dighe during the Ganesh festival. The incident drew disapproval from CM Eknath Shinde and MP Naresh Mhaske.

The Shiv Sena has removed two office-bearers from its Thane unit following a controversial video that surfaced online. The video, which went viral, showed party activists dancing and showering currency notes in front of a portrait of the late Anand Dighe, the mentor of Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.

The incident occurred on September 12 during the Ganesh festival and took place at Anand Ashram, where Dighe used to manage the Thane unit of the Shiv Sena.

Chief Minister Shinde and Thane Shiv Sena MP Naresh Mhaske expressed their disapproval, describing the event as 'highly unpleasant' and inconsistent with the respectful ways Dighe used to celebrate. Based on an order issued by Mhaske on Saturday night, the two party officials were dismissed. The CM's party emphasized the importance of maintaining appropriate conduct during celebrations.

(With inputs from agencies.)