As India gears up for the crucial fifth phase of elections on May 20, Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarks on a high-voltage campaign trail in Mumbai. He is poised to visit the financial capital in a whirlwind of rallies, roadshows, and crucial meetings, leaving no stone unturned in wooing voters.
Security Measures and Restrictions
In light of the Prime Minister Modi ‘s visit, the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations) has issued prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the CrPC (Code of Criminal Procedure). These orders ban the flying of drones, paragliders, balloons, kites, and remote-controlled microlight aircraft from 00.01 hrs till 24.00 hrs on May 15 (Wednesday) and May 17 (Friday). The orders cite apprehensions of potential terrorist or anti-social elements launching attacks using these devices, posing a grave danger to human life, health, safety, and public property.
The restrictions will be in force under the jurisdiction of several police stations, including Vikhroli, Kanjurmarg, Parksite, Ghatkopar, Pant Nagar, Tilak Nagar, Chembur, Chunabhatti, BKC, Kherwadi, Vakola, Vile Parle, Sahar, Airport, Bandra, Worli, Mahim, Dadar, and Shivaji Park. Violators will face punishment under IPC Section 188 (disobeying a lawful order given by a public servant).
Ghatkopar Roadshow and Potential Hospital Visit
PM Modi is scheduled to hold a campaign roadshow in Ghatkopar, eastern Mumbai, today. The roadshow will begin at 4.30 PM at Ghatkopar (W), LBS road near Damodar Park/Ashok Silk Mill compound near Shreyas cinema. It will then wind its way via Sarvodaya Hospital junction, Mumbai crime branch office, Sanghavi Square, Haveli bridge via M G road, to Ghatkopar (E) at Ramji Ashar High School and Parshwanath Square, covering a distance of 2.5 km.
Interestingly, the point of termination is very close to Rajawadi Hospital. There is a likelihood that PM Modi may visit the hospital to meet those injured in the tragic billboard collapse tragedy on Monday. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy CMs Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar, and city BJP chief Ashish Shelar will accompany the Prime Minister during the roadshow.
Traffic Restrictions and Comprehensive Planning
To ensure a smooth roadshow, Mumbai Police Commissioner Vivek Phansalkar has put in place massive security arrangements. Authorities have imposed traffic restrictions, closing LBS road from Gandhi Nagar junction to Naupada junction and Mahul-Ghatkopar Road from Meghraj Junction to R B Kadam junction for all vehicles on both sides from 2 pm to 10 pm. Authorities will not allow parking on LBS road and connected roads on May 14 and May 15.
The BJP has made comprehensive planning for the success of PM Modi’s roadshow. Organizers will cover about 38 municipal wards in a bid to reach out to voters with an invite for today’s roadshow. Mumbai BJP Chief Ashish Shelar and BJP candidate Mihir Kotecha have appealed to Mumbaikars to participate in large numbers.
Rallies in Nashik, Kalyan, and MNS Event
PM Modi’s visit will not be limited to the Ghatkopar roadshow. Today, he will address a rally at Dindori in support of BJP Candidate Dr. Bharti Pawar at Nashik and then another rally in Kalyan, supporting Shrikant Shinde. Additionally, the Prime Minister will participate in a rally organized by the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) led by Raj Thackeray at Shivaji Park on May 17. The BMC has granted permission to MNS to hold the rally after receiving a letter from the Urban Development department.
Crucial Timing and Significance
With only five days remaining for the fifth phase of elections, both the Mahayuti (BJP-Shiv Sena alliance) and Mahavikas Aghadi (opposition alliance) are leaving no stone unturned for the last phase in Maharashtra. PM Modi’s visit is crucial not just to charge up the cadres from the BJP and Shiv Sena in Mumbai North East but also in five other constituencies ahead of the polling.
The Prime Minister’s campaign blitzkrieg in Mumbai is a testament to the city’s significance in the electoral landscape. As the financial capital braces for a high-voltage political showdown, all eyes will be on PM Modi’s rallies, roadshows, and strategic moves to sway voters in his favor.
