I don't need govt security: Raj Thackeray

Mumbai, Oct 23: Maharashtra government on Thursday, Oct 23 decided to scaledown the security cover provided to Raj Thackeray, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena supremo.

This decision came after the security scrutiny committee headed by state Chief Secretary recommended that Raj's security has to be reduced to 'Y' status from the 'Z' one which he had earlier. Under Z-level security he was entitled to four carbine-wielding policemen and a personal officer moving around with him. But under 'Y' category he will have the security of a few policemen apart from his party workers for protection.

But even before the state government could implememt the new decision, Raj Thackeray reacted strongly to the news. He said, "I can protect myself. I don't need government security". Hearing the news, MNS workers gathered near Raj's house to show their support to the leader with their weapons like bats, hockey sticks and stones. MNS leaders also said that Raj Thackeray may seek the services of some private security agencies after consultation.

Meanwhile criticism against Raj is mounting, even some hindu leaders have condemned the actions take by Raj Thackeray and MNS. Shri Jagad Guru Shankarcharya Puri of Orissa described the actions of Raj Thackeray as dangerous for Hindutava.

“It seems Thackeray is keen to move fast in politics and is therefore playing with the sentiments of innocent people, which is not good for humanity. It is harmful for the larger interest of Hindutava and Hindu religion. Thackeray should be sincere with the masses and the people who love him".

Anger against Raj Thackeray has spread to Bihar and Jharkhand. Violent students on Wednesday, Oct 22 set train ablaze and hijacked its engine.

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