BMC allows Chhath Puja after Congress leaders meet CM, officials

Initiative seen as attempt to woo north Indian voters who have deserted the party

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Monday issued guidelines for the celebration of the annual Chhath Puja making an announcement of setting up artificial ponds for north Indian devotees.

The move comes after Mumbai Congress unit president Bhai Jagtap along with north Indian leaders of the party held a meeting with BMC officials. Mr. Jagtap had earlier held talks with Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray and had even written a letter to BMC Commissioner Iqbal Singh Chahal. The initiative is also seen as an attempt to woo north Indian voters who have deserted the party over the last few years.