Mumbai: Both Sena factions request BMC approval for Dussehra Rally at Dadar's Shivaji Park

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Both factions of the Shiv Sena are seeking approval from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to conduct their annual Dussehra rally at Mumbai's iconic Shivaji Park.

The Dussehra rally, traditionally initiated by Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray, has been a longstanding tradition at Shivaji Park in Dadar.

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The BMC recently confirmed that applications were submitted for the Dussehra rally by both factions of the Shiv Sena (led by CM Eknath Shinde and Uddhav Thackeray).

On October 1, MLA Sada Sarvankar, a leader of Shiv Sena led by Maharashtra CM Ekanth Shinde, submitted an application for the event. Later, on October 7, the Shiv Sena (UBT) central office too submitted their application for the Dussehra rally at Shivaji Park.

"We have received two applications for the Dussehra rally at Shivaji Park," stated a BMC official to PTI.

This year, the Dussehra festival is scheduled to be celebrated on October 24. In the previous year, both factions, led by CM Eknath Shinde and former CM Uddhav Thackeray, had sought permission to organise the annual Dussehra rally at Dadar's Shivaji Park. However, the BMC denied permission to both factions, citing concerns related to law and order.

Later, the Bombay High Court granted permission to the Uddhav Thackeray-led faction to hold their Dussehra rally at Shivaji Park on October 5 last year. Simultaneously, the Shinde camp held their rally at the MMRDA ground in Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC).

Dadar's Shivaji Park holds significance for Shiv Sena leaders and workers, as it is the resting place of the late Bal Thackeray, where his memorial stands.

Shiv Sena members often refer to Shivaji Park as 'Shiva-tirtha,' signifying its status as a sacred place.

(with inputs from PTI)