PUNE: Shiv Pratishthan Hindustan head Sambhaji Bhide participated in the Palkhi procession on Saturday along with around 500 members of his organisation.

They gathered at Jangli Maharaj Temple on JM Road where Bhide addressed the members. To avoid controversy, the members, instead of walking with the Palkhi, were following it.

Police officials were deployed in large numbers to prevent untoward incidents. A notice was also issued to the organisation by Shivajinagar police to maintain decorum. 

It is significant to note that during last year’s procession, a controversy erupted after members of Shiv Pratishthan Hindustan carrying weapons had barged into the procession.