A number of Christian associations in once Portuguese enclave of Vasai in the district have extended their support to NDA nominee Chintaman Vanga who is in fray from Palghar Lok Sabha seat.
"The community members have taken the decision to back the BJP candidate due to harassment by Bahujan Vikas Aghadi which is led by Hitendra Thakur," said one of the community leaders.
He said as many as 15 associations have come together and formed the "Vasai Minorities Forum" to support Wanga.
Addressing reporters in Vasai last evening in presence of local BJP leaders, the representatives of the Forum said they were forced to take this decision on account of the growing "goonda raj" in the belt. "We want this place to be safer and peaceful and backing Vanga," one of the representatives said.
The associations who have declared their support to Vanga include Vijay Macchado of Swabhimani Vasaikar Sanstha, Jack Gomes of Jagruti Yuva Sangh, Kayus Fernandes of Ek Parivar Sandor, and Dileep Mathak of Koli Yuva Shakti, Koliwada.
Thakur could not be reached for comments.
