Fortified Mumbai welcomes Rahul Gandhi

MUMBAI - Security has been tightened here for Congress General Secretary Rahul Gandhi’s visit, even as the right-wing Shiv Sena cautioned him to keep out of Mumbai’s affairs.

Mumbai Police is taking no chances and has sent notices to Shiv Sena leaders across Mumbai not to indulge in any illegal activity on Friday.

Gandhi, who arrived at Mumbai airport this morning, was received by Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan and other party bigwigs. Sources said a chopper has taken him to the Pawan Hans Veledrone in Ville Parle area where he will address a youth Congress function.

Mumbai Police Commissioner D Sivanandan said, “All precautions have been taken to ensure that Rahul Gandhi’s programmes pass off peacefully. Policemen have been deployed in large numbers at all places.”

Shiv Sena activists welcomed Rahul Gandhi with black flags and protests over his ‘Mumbai for all Indians remark’.

Gandhi will visit two colleges during his stay in the city.

Congress sources said the party is nervous about security arrangements in the wake of the Shiv Sena threat against Gandhi.

Gandhi will address college students at Bhaidas Hall this morning. The organisers in coordination with police officials have adopted various measures to ensure the programme passes off peacefully.

Students have been given admission cards, as entry is restricted.

Gandhi will then move to Ramabai Nagar for another function. A strong security cover has been put along the entire route from the Vikhroli helipad to the function venue. (ANI)