MNS sends miniature Toyota Innova models to BMC chief amid vehicle upgrade dispute

In Mumbai, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena attempted a theatrical protest by sending three toy Toyota Innova models to Municipal Commissioner Ashwini Bhide, according to party member Sandeep Deshpande, who noted the courier was rejected and sent back. The stunt follows a heated debate in the civic standing committee over the BMC's intention to swap the Mahindra Scorpio SUVs allotted to senior officials for six new Toyota Innova vehicles.

Opposition lawmakers, including Worli MLA Aaditya Thackeray, questioned the timing and cost of the upgrade, while the ruling BJP, represented by Ganesh Khankar, argued that all parties had previously agreed to the change. Khankar clarified he had not requested new cars for himself and stressed that the proposed vehicles would be obtained on lease under existing policy. He also urged the administration to retain the current Scorpio fleet for uniformity among senior officers, except for the commissioner and mayor. The episode highlights ongoing political friction over municipal spending and asset allocation.