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In a recent development, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's luggage underwent scrutiny by Election Commission officials in Panchavati, Nashik, on Thursday.

This incident follows allegations made by Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut, who claimed that Shinde transported bags filled with cash via helicopter to Nashik. However, Shinde's party, Shiv Sena, dismissed Raut's claims, asserting that the bags contained clothes.

Raut, in a media interaction, questioned the need for financial enticement if political parties truly have the support of the people. He criticised the authorities for focusing on investigating helicopters while neglecting actions against those allegedly involved in such activities.

Sanjay Shirsat, a spokesperson for Shiv Sena, refuted Raut's allegations, emphasising that the bags carried by Shinde contained only clothes. He dismissed Raut's claims as mere imagination.

Meanwhile, Maharashtra gears up for the fifth phase of Lok Sabha polls scheduled for Monday, May 20. Thirteen constituencies in the state will go to polls, with prominent candidates such as Union Minister Piyush Goyal, actor-politician Bhushan Patil, and public prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam vying for victory.

With 48 Lok Sabha seats, Maharashtra ranks second in the country after Uttar Pradesh, which has 80 seats.

The constituencies slated for polls include Dhule, Dindori, Nashik, Kalyan, Palghar, Bhiwandi, Thane, Mumbai North, Mumbai North-West, Mumbai North-East, Mumbai North-Central, Mumbai South-Central, and Mumbai South.

In terms of alliances, the BJP is contesting 28 seats, Shiv Sena 15, NCP 4, and Rashtriya Samaj Paksha 1. Chief Minister Shinde has reiterated that there are no internal conflicts within the Mahayuti alliance, comprising BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP under Ajit Pawar's leadership, regarding the distribution of Lok Sabha seats among allies.