MNS atrocities on Non-Maharastrians is attack on democracy: JD(U)

Patna, Feb 5 (UNI) Demanding stringent action against Raj Thackeray, JD(U) National General Secretary Shivanand Tiwary today described attacks on north Indians by Maharashtra Navnirman Sena(MNS) workers in Mumbai as an ''attack on national integration''.

Seeking immediate ban on the MNS, Mr Tiwari said Mumbai is the financial capital of the country and provided livelihood to millions of people from all regions by maintaining its cosmopolitan character. ''As such only a handful of people must not be allowed to vitiate the peaceful atmosphere of the great city.

Quoting data from the latest national census, the JD(U) All India spokesman said that out of the total population in Mumbai, only about 42 per cent comprised Maharastrians, followed by 21 per cent being from North India, 18 per cent Gujratis, 5 per cent Kannadis and 3 per cent each of Bengalees, Tamils, Sindhis among others.

He also criticised Union Agriculture Minister and NCP chief Sharad Pawar for conspicuously maintaining silence on the issue and urged the Centre to direct Maharashtra government under Article 355 to take necessary steps to end the menace without delay.

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