On Thursday, Abhishek Ghosalkar, an ex-Corporator of the Sena UBT and the son of a prominent ex-MLA, was fatally shot during a personal dispute in Dahisar, a northern suburb of Mumbai.
Following the incident, Ghosalkar was rushed to a local hospital where he was declared dead. This shocking event unfolded just days after a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA was caught on camera firing at a leader associated with Eknath Shinde's faction within a police station in Ulhasnagar, raising concerns about the law and order situation in Maharashtra.
The Murder Broadcasted on Facebook Live
The tragic incident involving Ghosalkar took place during a live-streamed session on Facebook. Mauris Noronha, Ghosalkar's alleged old rival, shot him multiple times before fatally shooting himself. The live video captured Noronha's initial pleasantries, mentioning their unity for the betterment of IC Colony in Borivali, and then abruptly turning violent as bullets were fired.
The video, which quickly went viral, showed Ghosalkar being shot four times in the abdomen and shoulder. Noronha, using an illegal pistol, then took his own life with a single gunshot. Both were taken to Karuna Hospital in Borivali in critical condition but succumbed to their injuries.
Despite their past personal enmity, the Facebook live was intended to showcase their reconciliation for the improvement of the IC Colony area. Investigations revealed that Noronha had faced legal issues, including charges of rape, blackmail, cheating, and threats, and believed Ghosalkar was responsible for his predicament. Noronha allegedly planned the shooting as an act of revenge.
One arrest has been made in connection with the case, and the Mumbai Police's Crime Branch is leading the investigation. The incident has sparked criticism of the law and order situation in Maharashtra, with leaders from various political parties expressing dismay and calling for accountability. Abhishek Ghosalkar, a former BMC corporator and director of the Mumbai District Central Co-operative Bank, had recently reconciled with Shiv Sena UBT and was known for his involvement in resolving citizens' issues. The tragic event has prompted concerns about the increasing lawlessness in the state, with political figures demanding answers and accountability from the authorities.
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