Mumbai: workers of Maharashtra Navnirman Sena on Monday went on the rampage, vandalized toll plazas in different parts of the state following their leader and MNS chief Raj Thackeray’s order not to pay the levy and “thrash” those who raise a voice against it.
The vandalism invited condemnation from the state’s ruling Congress-NCP alliance and demand for action against MNS.
Notify that Thackeray had exhorted his party workers at a function in Navi Mumbai last night, “Aadve aale tar tudvun kadha” (if anyone raises a voice, thrash them). Unless you are told why toll Is being levied, no one will pay.”
Hours later, workers of MNS were on streets, pulling down barriers and unleashing violence.
At least half-a-dozen toll booths were ransacked by MNS activists in Thane district, adjoining Mumbai, alone.
MNS legislator Pravin Darekar and at least 25 of his supporters were detained at Dahisar after party workers attacked a toll plaza.
Several toll booths in Kalyan township of the district were raided by MNS supporters led by local MLA Prakash Bhoir. Cases have been registered in connection with the attacks.
State Congress president Manikrao Thakre denounced the incidents and said he had discussed the matter with Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan. The Chief Minister, he said, had assured him that police complaints would be filed and action taken against the perpetrators.
Thakre said without naming Raj, “But what about those who incited the violence? Legal action should also be taken against them.”
Thakre said the decision to levy toll for using various roads and bridges was taken by the Shiv Sena-BJP government for projects taken up on build-operate-transfer (BOT) basis, he added.
Senior NCP leader and Union Minister Tariq Anwar also slammed Raj Thackeray for the incidents, saying, “he (Raj) has been adopting such tactics for cheap popularity. He should change his ways.”
Bureau Report
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