Thane | August 31, 2026
A dispute over medals for children who participated in the Thane Mayor Varsha Marathon has triggered criticism of the Thane Municipal Corporation, with the Shetkari Kamgar Paksha alleging that the civic body spent heavily on luxury vehicles while failing to provide basic medals to participants.
The marathon was organised by the Thane Municipal Corporation and the Thane District Athletics Association. A large stage was erected near the civic headquarters, and banners were put up as part of the event arrangements, according to the report. However, the planning of the competition came under criticism after several participants, including children, reportedly staged a sit-in demanding medals.
The Shetkari Kamgar Paksha subsequently held a public protest against the civic administration. The party said the corporation’s financial position was difficult, yet funds had been spent on luxury vehicles for elected representatives and officials. These claims were made in a press statement and were not independently substantiated in the source report.
Rishikesh Tayde, the party’s Thane city president, said children participated in the marathon with enthusiasm and expected recognition for their effort. He criticised the civic administration for allegedly being unable to provide simple medals while spending what he described as crores of rupees on luxury vehicles.
The party called the alleged spending a misuse of public money and opposed what it described as a VIP culture within the municipal administration. It demanded that the civic body stop what it termed wasteful expenditure and give priority to residents and children. The party also warned that it would launch a more intense agitation if its demands were not addressed.
The source report did not include a response from the Thane Municipal Corporation on the medal arrangements, the marathon budget, or the allegations concerning vehicle purchases. Further clarification from the civic administration is awaited.
