Dixit’s request for plot could land Shiv Sena in trouble

Actor Madhuri Dixit's request for a plot of land to set up a dance school could become a source of embarrassment for the Shiv Sena.

Actor Madhuri Dixit's request for a plot of land to set up a dance school could become a source of embarrassment for the Shiv Sena.

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A source within the party said the actor has not made a formal request to the civic body, but has written to Shiv Sena executive president Uddhav Thackeray with her plea. The source added that it was the Sena that was keen on allocating Dixit a plot as a reward for her help in launching the BMC's ambitious virtual classroom project.

The letter is likely to be discussed in the group leader's meeting on Monday. If approved by the group leaders, the request will be forwarded to the department concerned. The Opposition, however, seems all set to oppose any move to allocate civic land to the actor. “She refused to become the brand ambassador of the state. Why should we help her now,” Congress group leader Dyanraj Nikam said.

Dixit had reportedly rejected the state government's request to become the brand ambassador for Maharashtra, citing inadequate compensation. Riled by her refusal, even citizen activists have opposed any move to allocate land to the actor for her dance school. “When she can choose not to be the brand ambassador of Maharashtra Tourism, there is no reason for the BMC to consider her demand,” said Anandini Thakoor, chairperson, H-West Federation. “We have enough dance classes in Mumbai. We don't want another one,” she added.

Rajkumar Sharma, member of Action for Good Governance and Networking in India (AGNI) said: “Like every other citizen, she should follow the procedure and buy a piece of land. No celebrity should be given land for free or at discounted rates. The BMC must make a policy disallowing celebrities from making such demands.”