A petition has been filed in the Supreme Court seeking action against Raj Thackeray and the de-recognition of his party, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS). The plea alleges that his hate speech led to violent attacks on Hindi-speaking people. Incidents were reported in areas like Powai and Versova. The petitioner has urged the Court to take strict action against such divisive acts.
New Delhi: A petition has been submitted to the Supreme Court requesting action against the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) and its president, Raj Thackeray, for allegedly making hate speech against non-Marathi speakers in Mumbai.
The petition filed by Sunil Shukla, the National President of the Uttar Bharatiya Vikas Sena, a political party dedicated to the welfare of marginalized North Indian communities in Maharashtra and advocating for their rights.
The petition claims there have been numerous incidents of hate speech, targeted violence, and significant threats to the safety and liberties of North Indians in the state. It highlights public calls for violence and actual assaults on Hindi-speaking individuals in various locations across Mumbai, including Powai and D-Mart in Versova.
Notably, the plea emphasizes a controversial speech made by Thackeray at a Gudi Padwa rally on March 30, which was aired on ABP Maza.
This speech allegedly incited violence against non-Marathi speakers employed in visible roles, such as those in malls and banks.
Thackeray stated,
“In our Mumbai, they tell us that they cannot speak Marathi… they will get a slap on the face. Don’t tell me about the country and all. Every state has its language and it must be respected. In Mumbai, Marathi should be respected.”
Also Read: Bombay HC: “No Evidence of Instigation in 2008 Hate Speech Case Against Raj Thackeray”
Following this speech, Shukla alleges that there were reports of physical violence in areas like Powai and Versova. He claims to have received over 100 anonymous death threats, including a Twitter post urging his murder.
Additionally, he alleges that around 30 individuals associated with the MNS invaded his political party’s office and attempted to cause damage.
Despite several written complaints to Maharashtra’s Chief Minister, senior police officials, and the Election Commission of India, Shukla asserts that no FIRs have been filed, nor has any protection been offered to him or his party members.
The petition seeks the following actions:
- Immediate police protection for Shukla and his family.
- Registration of FIRs and a criminal investigation into the incidents.
- Direction for the Election Commission of India to consider derecognizing the MNS.
- Appointment of an independent agency or a Special Investigation Team (SIT) for an impartial inquiry.
- A restraining order against Thackeray to prevent further provocative public statements.
The petition was filed through advocate Sriram Parakkat.