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Gawli fears threat to his life, refuses to vote
Former underworld don Arun Gawli, who once instilled fear among his adversaries, is worried that Mumbai Police may eliminate him.
Former underworld don Arun Gawli, who once instilled fear among his adversaries, is today worried that the Mumbai Police may eliminate him in an encounter.
The don, who is contesting from south-central Mumbai Parliamentary constituency under the banner of Akhil Bharatiya Sena, a party floated by him, decided not to venture out of his `Dagdi chawl' residence even to cast his vote.
Speaking to reporters at his heavily guarded house in the stone building, Gawli charged NCP president Sharad Pawar, state Home Minister R R Patil and NCP nominee from the constituency, Sachin Ahir, of "hatching a plan to eliminate him".
Gawli alleged that Mumbai Crime Branch `encounter specialist' Inspector Vijay Salakar has been specially deputed at Agripada police station for `this job' and the arrest of ABS corporator Sunil Ghate was also the part of the plan.
Gawli said he has conveyed his apprehension to the returning officer, who has assured to provide more police cover. "But I do not trust Mumbai Police", he added.
Meanwhile, Additional Commissioner (Central Region), Mumbai, Vinod Lokhande, said Gawli has lodged a complaint saying that he faces a life threat, but said he was not aware if he has mentioned Inspector Salakar in it.
