We will not tolerate regional chauvinism: Congress

New Delhi, Oct 29 (UNI) Denouncing the attacks on the people from different states in Maharashtra, the ruling Congress Party today said it would not remain a silent spectator to any attempts at regional chauvinism that will destroy unity of the country and peace and brotherhood among all communities.

''We would like to make an unambiguous assertion that the Congress, which has taken the lead in the freedom movement, will not tolerate any attack on the unity and integrity of the country,'' AICC Spokesperson Jayanthi Natarajan told mediapersons.

''We will not remain a silent spectator to any attempts at regional chauvinism that will destroy unity of the country, peace and brotherhood among all the communities and the fundamental right to reside and work in any part of the country.'' Ms Natarajan said the Congress, which had always played a prominent role in unifying the country, would remain true to its core value of an united India.

The Congress-led coalition is in power in Maharashtra.

In this context, she urged the Vilasrao Deshmukh government in Maharashtra to take stern action against any culprits guilty of violence in the name of regional chauvinism.

''Regional chauvinism goes against our basic and fundamental principles and we will ensure that the unity of the country and safety of all citizens are protected,'' she said.

Replying to a qeustion, Ms Natarajan said Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had already spoken to Mr Deshmukh and the Chief Minister had appointed a high-level probe into the shooting incident involving a youth in a bus.

She urged Mr Deshmukh to ensure that any attack in the name of regional chauvinism did not recur.

UNI SH ARB AKJ BD1828