Election Commission officials conducted a routine inspection of Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s helicopter and bags on Friday during his campaign in Maharashtra’s Hingoli constituency. The checks were carried out as part of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) enforcement ahead of the state’s upcoming Assembly elections.

Sharing a video of the inspection on social media, Shah stated that the BJP supports fair elections and adheres to all Election Commission regulations. "Today, during my election campaign in Hingoli Assembly constituency of Maharashtra, my helicopter was inspected by Election Commission officials. BJP believes in fair elections and follows all rules made by the Honourable Election Commission," he tweeted.

He emphasized the importance of a healthy electoral system, urging everyone to uphold their duties to strengthen India’s democracy.

Background of the Checks

The inspections come amid allegations from the Opposition that such measures are selectively targeting certain leaders. Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray recently raised concerns after poll officials frisked his bags in Yavatmal during a campaign visit. Sharing a video of the incident, Thackeray questioned whether similar checks were conducted for Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, his deputies Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar, or even for PM Narendra Modi and Amit Shah.

Thackeray was subjected to another bag check in Latur on Tuesday, prompting his son Aaditya Thackeray to post a video of the incident on social media. Election Commission sources defended the checks, describing them as standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure a level playing field during elections.

Inspections Across Parties

Amid the controversy, Election Commission officials have conducted similar inspections for other high-profile leaders, including CM Shinde, Deputy CM Fadnavis, and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari. These measures are intended to prevent the distribution of cash, gifts, or other materials that could influence voters during the polls.

Maharashtra Polls Overview

Maharashtra’s Assembly elections, covering all 288 constituencies, are scheduled for a single phase on November 20. The counting of votes will take place on November 23, with the state’s political alliances—Mahayuti and Maha Vikas Aghadi—engaged in intense campaigning.

The Election Commission’s stringent checks underscore its efforts to maintain transparency and fairness in the electoral process amidst rising political tensions in the poll-bound state.