Chaos prevails at Munde's funeral site, daughter appeals for calm

Chaos erupted ahead of the funeral of former union minister Gopinath Munde, after leaders and activists tried to cross barricades to pay homage to the late BJP leader, who died in a car accident on Tuesday.

Clashes and incidents of stone pelting took place between the police and Munde's supporters hailing in Parli village in Maharashtra's Beed District.

Munde's daughter Pankaja appealed to the crowd to maintain peace and order, and asked them not to hurl stones at the police.

Meanwhile, a huge crowd has gathered to pay their tribute to Munde, whose body was brought to Parli village this morning for last rites. It was earlier placed in state at the BJP office in Mumbai to allow people from all walks of life to pay their respects.

Soon after the coffin with Munde's body was brought to Latur Airport, naval personnel carried it to a waiting hearse for its onward journey to Parli village.

Family members have reportedly decided that Pankaja will be performing the last rites this afternoon.

Munde passed away yesterday after his car met with an accident in New Delhi. Senior politicians, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and L K Advani paid homage to the deceased leader at the party headquarters in New Delhi.

Several senior leaders and party workers are set to attend the funeral rites of Munde.