MNS launches signature campaign against Raj's gag order

Mumbai, Feb 28 (UNI) The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has launched a state-wide signature campaign against the gag put on Raj Thackeray.

The police had, earlier, passed gag orders under section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code banning Raj Thackeray from holding public rallies, ''dharnas'' or press conferences, following his allegedly provocative remarks against north Indians.

An MNS spokesperson, Sandeep Deshpande, told UNI that the party has launched a signature campaign from today to garner support for the party chief.

The campaign, he said, will continue till March 2. The signatures, thus collected, will be submitted to Chief Minister Vilasrao Deshmukh and Deputy Chief Minister R R Patil.

The MNS has alleged that the government has extended the gag order on Raj Thackeray owing to pressure from the leaders of the north Indian community.

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