Accused of rape, aspiring MLA behind Mumbai billboard collapse.

Police have reported that Bhinde is currently evading authorities. Ego Media’s owner has a history of legal issues, with over 20 cases against him, including one for rape. His cellphone is currently switched off.

Bhinde ran as an Independent candidate in the 2009 state election for the Mulund constituency. In his affidavit, he disclosed that he faced 23 cases under the Mumbai Municipal Corporation Act and the Negotiable Instruments Act. Sources claim that Bhinde’s agency secured contracts from Indian Railways and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) for erecting hoardings and banners, but allegedly violated the organizations’ rules multiple times.

Bhinde and individuals from his company are also accused in cases related to tree poisoning and cutting. A massive hoarding erected by Bhinde’s agency collapsed onto a fuel station in Ghatkopar, exceeding the permissible size as per BMC regulations. The commissioner stated that no permission had been granted for the hoarding and a case has been filed in this regard.

Additionally, there were complaints about trees being cut to make the hoarding visible. BMC officials emphasized the importance of obtaining their permission for erecting billboards, alongside any approvals from other authorities. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced compensation for the families of those who lost their lives and pledged to cover the medical expenses of the injured, following the tragic incident.