Has the Shiv Sena flouted EC guidelines?

Dahisar - The inauguration of a park at IC colony days after the election code of conduct kicked in, has become a bone of contention for political parties.

While the code of conduct became applicable on 11 January in the city, a function to mark the inauguration of the Karmayogi Park was held on 14 January at the site, and was attended by Shiv Sena dignitaries, including current and former corporators.

Among those who marked their presence at the function were mayor Dr Shubha Raul, ward-head Sheetal Mhatre, corporator Avkash Jadhav were present in the inauguration programme. Now, all three are alleged to have breached the code of conduct. Event organiser Dattaram Kosambe came out in support of the dignitaries, "We had taken prior permission for the programme and this programme is not organised for or under any political party's aegis."

Dr Raul and Mhatre said, "The programme was held by an organisation and not by a party."

All have said that the actual inauguration had taken place on 10 January, before the code of conduct kicked in.

Despite these clarifications, when Mumbai Live visited the park on Wednesday, the board proclaiming the inauguration, open to the public till 14 January, was found covered by a newspaper.

Will the Election Commission take note? Or was it an innocent function held by a social organisation? Mumbaikars are waiting to know.