• Source:JND
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Mumbai News: Visuals from a late-night gathering at Bandra Fort have led to a major political dispute in Maharashtra after a video showed liquor being served at the heritage site. The party reportedly took place on Saturday evening and continued into early Sunday, raising questions about how such an event was allowed at a protected monument where alcohol consumption has been banned since a 2020 government order.

The footage was first posted by Shiv Sena (UBT) secretary Akhil Chitre, who criticised the authorities and asked how permission was granted for a liquor counter at the 400-year-old fort. The clip, which is over six minutes long, was allegedly recorded by local residents who noticed the gathering on Sunday morning.

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Chitre said he reached the spot with police officials to question the organisers. According to him, the organisers claimed they had the required approval but refused to show any documents. “What is going on at the forts of Maharashtra? How is the Maharashtra government’s state excise department and BMC granting permission for a liquor party at Bandra Fort, a heritage structure that bears witness to the history of empires like the Portuguese who built it and later the British and Marathas?” he asked.

He also alleged that the party appeared to be linked to a three-day music event held at the fort, suggesting it may have been a post-fest gathering. Chitre further questioned whether the state tourism department had played any role in the event’s organisation and demanded answers from local representatives. “This is the hypocritical Hindutva and deceptive culture of BJP,” he charged on X.

Congress leaders soon joined the criticism, with Vijay Wadettiwar asking how such an event could be allowed at a protected structure. Congress MP Varsha Gaikwad also pointed out that BJP leader Ashish Shelar attended the programme as a special guest and questioned his presence after he termed the incident “wrong and unacceptable”.

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Responding to the controversy, Shelar said an inquiry had been ordered and the administration was checking if any permissions were issued. “The incident that occurred at Bandra Fort or its premises is unfortunate, wrong and unacceptable. The Chief Minister and I have ordered an investigation into this matter,” he said.

Authorities, however, have not provided clear information. The tourism department said it only offered local support, while BMC officials stated they maintain the gardens but needed more details. The state excise commissioner said a report had been sought from the deputy excise commissioner.

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