Disruptions over allocation of funds

Nashik: The general body meeting of the Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) on Monday witnessed sharp disruptions and a brief ruckus as corporators from opposition parties protested against certain provisions in the civic budget for the financial year 2026–27.The protest centered around the absence of a specific financial allocation for a memorial of former deputy chief minister late Ajit Pawar and alleged disparity in the distribution of ward development funds between ruling and opposition members.As soon as the budget-related proceedings began, several corporators moved towards the well of the House near mayor Himgauri Aher and raised slogans against the standing committee.The protesting members alleged that no financial provision had been made for constructing a memorial of late Ajit Pawar, despite repeated demands. They also claimed that corporators belonging to opposition parties had been allotted significantly lower funds for ward-level development works compared to those from the ruling alliance.Tensions escalated when Shiv Sena (UBT) corporator Bharti Tajanpure attempted to snatch the mayor's sceptre. Ruling party members immediately intervened and prevented the move. Corporators from both the ruling and opposition sides gathered near the mayor's table, leading to chaos in the House for several minutes before order was gradually restored.Taking serious note of the incident, Aher ordered suspension of Tajanpure from the House for a period of six months, citing indiscipline and violation of House norms. She also directed security personnel to escort her out of the house (sabhagriha).However, following appeals from several opposition corporators, the mayor later withdrew the suspension order. While revoking the action, Aher issued a stern warning that strict disciplinary measures would be taken in future against any member found disrespecting the House or violating established rules.During the proceedings, the mayor assured the House that a financial provision for constructing a memorial of late Ajit Pawar would be incorporated in the NMC budget for the fiscal 2026–27.The BJP-Shiv Sena alliance currently governs the civic body, with BJP corporator Aher serving as mayor and Shiv Sena corporator Vilas Shinde as deputy mayor.