BMC puts a damper on MNS foundation day celebrations

Mumbai, Mar 7 (UNI) The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) will not be able to celebrate its second foundation day on March 9 in a ''fitting manner'' as the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has denied the MNS permission to use the Shivaji Park ground for the function.

MNS general secretary Shirish Parkar today alleged that police had pressurised the BMC to deny them permission to hold their foundation day celebrations at the historic Shivaji Park.

In a release, he said the police had cited law and order problems to the BMC to deny the MNS permission to hold the programme.

Mr Parkar said following the denial of permission, their president Raj Thackeray had called off the programme.

He said they had followed all the rules and regulations while seeking permission. ''We have written to the BMC 15 days prior to the function.'' The Mumbai Police have imposed a gag order on Mr Raj Thackeray, prohibiting him from addressing rallies or press briefings. The ban was imposed on February 11 and extended till March 3.

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