MNS issue: Bombay HC slams Maharashtra govt

Mumbai, Sep 25: On Thursday, Sep 25 the Bombay High Court slammed the Maharashtra government for its handling of Maharashtra Navnirman Sena's (MNS) agitation on Marathi signboards. "If you don't have political will, then give that message to the people that we can not do anything," said Justice Patel. The High Court has asked the state government to take strict action against all MNS leaders for issuing ultimatum to traders to put Marathi signboards.

It gave the govt time till Oct 16 to initiate proceedings against the MNS chief Raj Thackeray. HC also questioned the government's role. It observed that all those who were terrorizing the common public and creating law and order problems were been given a free hand. The court even questioned state Home Minister"s role in the entire episode for his lack of support to Mumbai Joint Commissioner, who was trying to enforce law and order in the city.

Intensifying his 'Marathi vs non-Marathis MNS supremo Raj Thackeray recently issued ultimatums to the shopkeepers in the city to change the signboards of their establishments in Marathi warning that if they failed to comply, they shall be taught a lesson.

Federation of Retail Traders Welfare Association had moved the court after that. The Court then directed that the State should ensure that nobody was harmed, and the MNS must not indulge in violence. The earlier orders restraining MNS and Raj Thackeray from issuing threats or indulging in hooliganism continue.

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