Thane: Mumbra police on Thursday issued a formal notice to newly elected AIMIM corporator Sahar Shaikh following her controversial victory speech, which allegedly aparked political tension in the township. The 29-year-old, who won from Ward 30 in the recent Thane Municipal Corporation elections, was warned against making statements that could disturb communal harmony. Mahayuti leaders and local groups alleged the remark carried communal undertones.A viral video from Shaikh’s post-election rally showed her taunting NCP (SP) leader Jitendra Awhad, asking, “Kaise haraya? (How did I defeat you?).” However, the main controversy erupted over her declaration to “paint all of Mumbra green” during her 5-year term. While asserting her secular credentials, Shaikh said the reference was simply to her party’s official colour and her statement merely expressed hope to expand her party’s footprint throughout Mumbra. Following multiple complaints, Mumbra police invoked Section 168 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS)—a preventive provision designed to maintain law and order. The notice advises the corporator to exercise caution in public addresses and refrain from statements that might inflame communal sentiments. — Nishikant Karlikar
