Mumbai: AICC General Secretary and Congress MP from Amethi, Rahul Gandhi arrived in Mumbai a short while ago amid strong protests from Shiv Sena, which has indulged in a bitter war-of-words with him in the last few days. Rahul arrived one hour late.

After landing at Mumbai Airport, Rahul Gandhi took a helicopter to reach Santa Cruz. He will later proceed to Bhaidas Hall in Vile Parle by road. Hundreds of party workers, youth and college students had gathered at Bhaidas Hall to greet Rahul Gandhi and interact with him.

Maharashtra CM Ashok Chavan was at the Airport to welcome Rahul Gandhi. Joint Police Commissioner, Rakesh Maria was also at the Airport to monitor the security arrangements.  Top level police officials have camped at Bhaidas Hall, where Rahul will address the youth.

Rahul Gandhi will be addressing college students at Bhaidas Hall in the morning at a function organised by the Youth Congress in Mumbai. Media has been prohibited from entering the meeting. Several Shiv Sainiks, including a woman Corporator Rajul Patel, were taken into custody outside the Bhaidas Hall at around 10:25 AM.

Shiv Sena is protesting against Rahul Gandhi's 'Mumbai for All Indians' remarks, saying Marathis hold the first right over Mumbai and Maharashtra. Rahul had also slammed Sena for playing divisive politics and said that NSG Commandos from UP, Bihar and other parts of the country, played crucial roles during the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks.

The Maharashtra government has made high security arrangements to prevent any untoward incident during Rahul Gandhi's visit. Over 50 Sainiks were placed under house arrest. Section 144 has been imposed in several areas.

Shiv Sena supremo Bal Thackeray has again lashed out at Rahul Gandhi and asked Shiv Sainiks to greet him with black flags in Mumbai.