Urmila Matondkar Seeks Police Protection

Mumbai: Actor-turned-politician Urmila Matondkar has sought police protection after a scuffle broke out between Congress and BJP supporters while during her campaign outside Borivali railway station here on Monday.

“Shocked at the blatant violation of code of conduct and hostile acts by BJP workers…I was constrained to lodge police complaint for my own safety and to save the dignity of my female supporters,” she tweeted.

During an election rally outside the station, Urmila alleged that some 15-20 BJP supporters gathered at the venue suddenly and started shouting pro-Modi slogans. At first, she did not react, but later the workers resorted to vulgar dancing and using abusive language. This was done to create an atmosphere of fear for the women who had come to support her, the actor said.

Soon after this, a fight ensued between the Congress and BJP supporters. She then filed a police complaint at the local police station and sought protection.

“It’s being done to create fear. It’s just the beginning and may take a violent turn. I have asked for police protection as there’s a threat to my life. I’ve filed a complaint,” Urmila told news agency ANI.

Urmila is the Congress candidate from North Mumbai constituency. She is pitted against BJP’s Gopal Shetty.

Urmila, 45, joined the Congress last month. Mumbai’s six Lok Sabha constituencies will vote on April 29 along with 17 others in Maharashtra in the fourth phase of polling for the national elections that started on April 11.

Results will be out on May 23.