Maharashtra law and order questioned as congress blames Devendra Fadnavis for rising crimes

Bishnoi (right) gang threats to Salman Khan, Ranveer Singh and Rohit Shetty spark Congress criticism. File Pic

The Opposition Congress on Friday sharply criticised the Maharashtra government, claiming that law and order in the state, including Mumbai, is worsening. The party raised concerns over threats to Bollywood celebrities like Salman Khan, Ranveer Singh, and filmmaker Rohit Shetty, allegedly from the Lawrence Bishnoi gang.

Earlier this week, Ranveer Singh, star of Dhurandhar, reportedly received a threat via WhatsApp from unknown individuals. Meanwhile, an unidentified shooter fired five rounds at Rohit Shetty's residence in Juhu. A member of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang claimed responsibility for the attack.

Congress spokesperson Atul Londhe said, "Failure of law and order could be seen even during election time. There have been threats to filmstars Salman Khan and Ranveer Singh, and filmmaker Rohit Shetty. Shots were fired at Salman Khan's house, and these things are happening frequently, but the government does not have an answer to these issues."

Government failing to act

Londhe criticised Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who also serves as the home minister, saying the state government lacks effective measures to curb crime. "We have a so-called powerful chief minister, who is also serving as the home minister. And it is his responsibility. Law and order situation is deteriorating not only in Mumbai but also in his hometown Nagpur," he added.

He accused the government of being distracted by political debates rather than addressing pressing issues like unemployment, inflation, and women's safety. "It is very clear that this government is short of ideas and not in a position to take strict actions. They are only after Hindu-Muslim debates instead of addressing unemployment, inflation and women's safety," Londhe said.

Bishnoi gang operating from prison?

Londhe also raised questions about how gangster Lawrence Bishnoi continues to operate despite being behind bars. "He is in prison, and you are in power and controlling the prison, but still, he is able to do all these things. So whose failure is this? It is completely the failure of Devendra Fadnavis and the Maharashtra government," he said as per PTI reports.

The Congress leader alleged that Bishnoi may have support from within the administration and political circles, which allows him to continue criminal activities. Londhe reminded that when the Congress was in power, strict actions were taken against extortion rackets and underworld gangs in Mumbai. He contrasted this with the current government, saying it has failed to rein in criminal elements despite repeated incidents targeting high-profile personalities.