Jail seems to be no deterrent for Amol Kirtikar, who is contesting the Mumbai North West parliamentary seat as part of the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT). In an exclusive conversation with mid-day, for the first time with any media house, Kirtikar claimed he would not budge under any circumstance and would contest the Lok Sabha elections from behind bars if the investigation agency proceeds with his arrest in connection with the alleged Khichdi scam during COVID-19.
 
Amol has been asked to appear before the ED office at Ballard Estate on April 8. On March 27, Uddhav Thackeray announced Kirtikar’s candidature. Immediately after the announcement, Amol, the son of sitting Member of Parliament Gajanan Kirtikar, was issued a summons by the ED in connection with the alleged food supply scam during COVID-19. Kirtikar Sr. is with the Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction, but Amol refused to switch sides and continued to work with the Thackeray-led Sena.

Amol categorically stated that he has done nothing wrong and would not bow to any pressure, be it political or through investigative agencies. “Whatever money earned or received has been maintained through proper accounts. In fact, everything has been declared in income tax. The receipts were shown in earnings because these were legitimate earnings. As I have done nothing wrong, I am willing to face all questions and an inquiry, too. But, I will not succumb to any pressure tactics or quit the Thackeray-led Sena,” Amol added.