Decision on ''gag order'' after studying Raj's reply: Police

Mumbai, Mar 10 (UNI) The city police today said they would take a decision on the extension of ''gag order'' imposed on MNS chief Raj Thackeray after ''examining'' the supplementary reply filed by him.

The police had asked Raj Thackeray to give 'detailed reasons' as to why the ''gag order'' should not be extended.

''Any decision in this regard would be taken only after closely examining the reply,'' said official sources, while confirming that the police had received the reply from the MNS chief. They, however, refused to give details about it.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operation) A Dhumare had issued the notice on Saturday, asking for reply within 24 hours.

The MNS chief had made provocative remarks on February 3 against the North Indians, ahead of a rally organised by the Samajwadi Party (SP) at the historic Shivaji Park here, triggering violence in the metropolis and other parts of the state.

On February 11, Mr Dhumare slapped the ''gag order'' under Section 144 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), restraining him from holding public rallies, 'dharnas' and press conferences till midnight of February 25, which was later further extended till March 3.

UNI ST/CP SSS HS RS2057