A significant theft overshadowed the grand swearing-in ceremony of Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, which drew the presence of the Prime Minister, multiple chief ministers, film stars, and cricketers. The event, celebrated at Mumbai’s Shivaji Park on December 5, witnessed the attendance of prominent political figures and celebrities, but amid the festivities, valuables estimated at Rs 12 lakh, including gold chains and cash, were reported stolen.
The theft occurred in the midst of the tightly secured venue, raising concerns over the efficacy of the security measures in place. The stolen items reportedly belonged to attendees who had gathered to witness the historic moment marking the formation of the new Mahayuti government, led by Fadnavis alongside Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar. Mumbai police have confirmed that the theft is under investigation, with efforts underway to identify the culprits through CCTV footage and other evidence collected at the site.
The elaborate ceremony, described as a testament to Maharashtra’s political stability and progress, was marred by this unforeseen security breach. High-profile attendees, including Union ministers and business leaders, lauded the new government while expressing disappointment over the reported theft. Bollywood celebrities and cricketers also joined the event, further amplifying its prominence on a national level.