Ulhasnagar: Tensions between the Shiv Sena and BJP in the Ulhasnagar Municipal Corporation surfaced during September 16’s general body meeting over a proposal concerning tourist status for Antilia Ghat. The proposal, reportedly introduced following a suggestion by MLA Kumar Ailani, triggered a heated exchange between corporators.

As the arguments intensified, Mayor Ashwini Nikam announced a lunch break and left the meeting hall. In her absence, Deputy Mayor Amar Lund reportedly occupied the Mayor’s chair and attempted to continue the proceedings.

Municipal Commissioner Manisha Awhale and other civic officials had also left the hall, raising questions over the conduct and validity of the proceedings held in their absence.

The Antilia Ghat proposal has become a contentious issue, with demands to recognise the site as a tourist and religious destination. Recent reports have also highlighted disputes over the site and its status.

The episode has added to tensions within the ruling Shiv Sena-BJP alliance in the civic body. The Bombay High Court recently intervened in a separate dispute involving the corporation’s nominated councillor process, quashing the Mayor and Commissioner’s postponement order and directing that a fresh meeting be held by September 25.

The latest confrontation has therefore drawn attention to the functioning of the civic body and the relationship between the two alliance partners. Questions remain over the status of the proceedings conducted after the Mayor and civic officials left the hall.