Controversy Surrounds Asiatic Society Mumbai Elections Amid Allegations of Manipulation
Our fight is against ideological untouchability: Sahasrabuddhe
The Indian Express
Image: The Indian Express
Vinay Sahasrabuddhe, former BJP vice-president and Rajya Sabha MP, discusses the contentious elections for the Asiatic Society Mumbai, a historic research institution. He claims the elections are hindered by ideological discrimination and legal challenges, emphasizing the need for reforms and inclusivity within the institution.
- 01Elections for the Asiatic Society Mumbai are marred by allegations of irregular memberships.
- 02Sahasrabuddhe leads the 'Asiatic Tomorrow' panel, advocating for reforms and inclusivity.
- 03He asserts that accusations of right-wing discrimination are unfounded.
- 04The society's administration faces issues like unpaid wages and the theft of rare books.
- 05Sahasrabuddhe emphasizes the need for the society to expand its outreach beyond South Mumbai.
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The elections for the Asiatic Society Mumbai, a prestigious institution with a legacy of over 200 years, are currently embroiled in controversy due to allegations of irregular memberships and legal challenges. Vinay Sahasrabuddhe, former vice-president of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and current Rajya Sabha MP, leads the 'Asiatic Tomorrow' panel, which aims to restore the society's glory and promote inclusivity. He claims that the rival panel has manipulated membership enrollments, with evidence suggesting payment for memberships linked to the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). Sahasrabuddhe addresses accusations of right-wing discrimination, asserting that these narratives are false and highlighting the BJP's respect for political rivals. He emphasizes the need for reforms to improve the society's administration, address employee grievances, and protect its collection of rare books. The panel aims to expand the society's outreach beyond South Mumbai, making its resources accessible to a broader audience.
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The outcome of the elections could significantly affect the direction and inclusivity of the Asiatic Society, impacting researchers and the general public's access to its resources.
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