The Lok Sabha elections on May 20, the people of Mumbai would send Congress leaders to Pakistan to protect the family of Ajmal Kasab, the accused terrorist in the 26/11 attacks.

In a controversial statement, Maharashtra BJP President Chandrashekhar Bawankule has stirred controversy by suggesting that after the Lok Sabha elections on May 20, the people of Mumbai would send Congress leaders to Pakistan to protect the family of Ajmal Kasab, the accused terrorist in the 26/11 attacks. Bawankule made these remarks in response to criticism from Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar, who had targeted Chief Minister Eknath Shinde over a hoarding incident in suburban Ghatkopar.

Bawankule accused Wadettiwar of siding with Ajmal Kasab and asserted that he had no right to campaign in Mumbai. He went on to state that after the elections, Mumbai residents would send Congress leaders to Pakistan for the security of Kasab's family.

The controversy stems from statements made by Wadettiwar regarding the 26/11 case, where he accused Ujjwal Nikam, the MP from Mumbai North Central Lok Sabha seat, of allegedly withholding information about the circumstances of former Maharashtra ATS Hemant Karkare's death. Wadettiwar claimed that Karkare was not killed by Ajmal Kasab but by a policeman associated with the RSS.

Despite the controversy, Bawankule expressed confidence in the ruling Mahayuti alliance, predicting victory in all seats. He emphasized the alliance's aim to secure more than 51 per cent of the votes in Mumbai. Bawankule also mentioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled roadshow in Mumbai, highlighting the party's enthusiasm and determination to secure support from the electorate.

Addressing concerns raised by Congress candidate Varsha Gaikwad regarding PM Modi's roadshow after the Ghatkopar hoarding incident, Bawankule stated that the roadshow had been planned well in advance and emphasized the party's sensitivity towards accidents. He clarified that PM Modi's visit aimed to garner support and votes from the people.

Mumbai hosts half a dozen Lok Sabha seats, making it significantly electorally important. Voting for the fifth and final phase in Maharashtra is scheduled for May 20.