14 August,2025 01:54 PM IST | Mumbai | Sanjeev Shivadekar
Raj Thackeray. Pic/X
Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray criticised the BJP-led Maharashtra government over its ban on the sale of meat on Independence Day, accusing it of deliberately fuelling divides between communities through measures such as encouraging pigeon feeding and pushing for compulsory Hindi for classes 1 to 5 in schools across the state.
Reacting to the Kalyan Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC) decision to ban meat sales on August 15, Raj questioned the true meaning of freedom on Independence Day. "The government should not decide who should eat what. I have asked my party workers to ensure the sale of meat is carried out on the day," he said.
Continuing his attack on the BJP, Raj Thackeray said Mangal Prabhat Lodha represents all of Maharashtra, not just one community. "Medical experts have been warning about health hazards due to pigeons. The government should take this into consideration instead of acting on emotional grounds," he stated.
When asked about a Jain leader seeking his mediation in the matter, Raj said, "Everyone should respect the court's directives. What the court has instructed should be followed."
MNS chief demands action on protesters
Raj Thackeray also expressed dissatisfaction with the police and government over what he called biased action. He claimed that just as the police acted against protesters from the Marathi Ekikaran Committee on Wednesday, they should take similar action against those who forcefully entered and damaged the tarpaulin put up by the BMC to keep pigeons out of Kabutarkhana.
"People came with knives and other sharp objects and damaged the cover put up by the BMC. But the police did not take any action against them. Those who took the law into their own hands should be booked according to the rules. Police cannot act against one group and spare another," Thackeray said, pressing for action against those who protested on Dadar streets and escaped police action.
