Lucknow BJP councillor extortion: In a shocking incident, Santosh Tiwari, husband of BJP councillor Nisha Tiwari, has been accused of extorting money from poor street vendors in the Maniyanv area. Reports suggest that Tiwari is allegedly demanding donations from vendors, and those who refuse face violent threats and harassment.Vendors threatened with violenceAccording to witnesses, Santosh Tiwari and his associates have resorted to physical intimidation to collect money. A local street vendor recounted, If the cart owner refuses to give money, they twist his arm, abuse him, and even attempt to break his cart. The situation has left many small business owners in fear, with some questioning whether elected officials are involved in such extortion practices or if this is an isolated case of abuse of power.थप्पड़ मारेंगे.... अभी तुम जानत नहीं हो ...पैसा दो...लखनऊ। जानकीपुरम में भाजपा पार्षद निशा तिवारी के पति संतोष तिवारी मणियांव में गरीब ठेले वालों से चंदा वसूली कर रहे हैं।ठेले वाला पैसा देने से मना करता है तो उसका हाथ मरोड़ते हैं, गाली देते हैं और उसका ठेला तोड़ने की कोशिश… pic.twitter.com/2X8pfkmj4D— Kavish Aziz (@azizkavish) October 18, 2024Abuse of power or extortionThe allegations raise serious concerns about the abuse of political influence. The street vendors in Maniyanv are some of the most vulnerable, and such actions could further undermine their livelihood. Is this the job of councillors—to intimidate and extort from the poor one vendor asked, highlighting the sense of helplessness among those affected.The question now arises: Is this a misuse of political office for personal gain, or are these just rogue elements taking advantage of their association with the ruling partyNeed for investigationThese accusations have sparked outrage and call for an immediate investigation into the activities of Santosh Tiwari. Local residents are demanding answers and action from authorities to protect their businesses from such coercion. The extent of the alleged extortion, and whether other vendors have experienced similar treatment, remains to be seen.
