ATS investigations in Malegaon case evoke mixed political reactions

Pune, Nov 23 (UNI) The investigations by Anti-terrorism Squad in the September 29 Malegaon blast case are evoking mixed reactions in the political arena, with some parties applauding them, some criticising them and a few choosing to remain mum.

Talking to UNI, local Congress leader Ramesh Bagwe rubbished the claims of ATS targeting Hindus and said, ''ATS is performing its duty righteously. Terrorism do not have any religion. We have immense faith in law of the nation.'' Regarding arrest of suspended Lt Col Prasad Purohit, he said, ''A lot of evidences are coming against Purohit and ATS is conducting an impartial investigation in the matter,'' he added.

While city youth BJP president Sandeep Khardekar alleged, ''This is a planned game of the government to appease the Muslims, by defaming the Hindus. Our party is supporting Purohit.'' In a query as to why member of some organisations were showering Purohit with flowers when he was being taken to the city court in a forgery case, he said, ''It was a spontaneous reaction of the Hindus.'' However, the reaction of Raj Thackeray led Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) is strange. Refusing to comment on the issue, City MNS corporator Ravindra Dangekar said, ''We fight only for the cause of Marathi people.'' Meanwhile, Shiv Sena came out in full support of Purohit, with Party city unit vice president Prashant Badhe saying ''From the very first day we have been supporting Purohit. This is a notorious act of ATS against Hindus.

Also through the arrests government is trying to appease the Muslim vote bank.'' Hindu organisation Abhinav Bharat's president Himani Savarkar said, ''Government is doing injustice with Purohit through its tool ATS. Our organisation is fully supporting Purohit. He is innocent.'' Whereas Socialist leader Bhai Vaidya said, ''Hindu organisations are spreading communal poison in the Indian Army. Prime Minister, Defence Minister and President should take steps to prevent this.'' There may be a thousand views on the issue but only time will reveal the truth.

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