Special team formed to probe attack on Shinde Sena leader by BJP MLA in Maharashtra

A special investigation team (SIT) was formed to investigate the Ulhasnagar firing after Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis ordered a high-level inquiry into the incident. The SIT will be led by ACP Nilesh Sonawane.

BJP MLA Ganpat Gaikwad allegedly shot Mahesh Gaikwad, belonging to the Eknath Shinde faction of the Shiv Sena, at a police station in Ulhasnagar on Friday. The police seized the gun used and have arrested the BJP leader.

The incident occurred when both the Shiv Sena and BJP leaders, along with their supporters, gathered at the Hill Line Police Station to file a complaint over a land dispute.

While explaining what happened inside the Hill Line Police Station, Thane ACP, Datta Shinde said, "BJP MLA Ganpat Gaikwad shot Mahesh Gaikwad and Rahul Patil. A murder case has been registered against the BJP MLA."

Claiming that there was no question of firing in self defence, Shinde told news agency ANI, "The injured were sitting and watching the CCTV screen. There was no argument or provocation. But he (Ganpat Gaikwad) aimed and shot them. Six bullets have been received from injured Mahesh Gaikwad's body."

Along with Mahesh Gaikwad, Rahul Patil, a Sena MLA, was also injured in the incident.

Mahesh Gaikwad was initially admitted to Mira Hospital in Ulhasnagar, but he was later shifted to Jupiter hospital in Thane after his condition became serious.

Tension prevailed in Thane on late Friday evening as Shiv Sena supporters gathered at the hospital after Mahesh and Rahul were admitted to the Jupiter Hospital.