MNS chief Raj Thackeray appears in Thane court in 2008 rioting case

A large crowd of supporters gathered outside as Thackeray appeared before Chief Judicial Magistrate AV Kulkarni. The court framed charges against him and several MNS workers related to rioting, assault on candidates, and attacks on police personnel on October 19, 2008.

When the magistrate asked whether he accepted the charges, Thackeray said he did not. The matter has now been posted for the next hearing on December 16, according to his lawyer Rajendra Shirodkar. He added that the MNS chief would attend court proceedings whenever directed.

Security was heightened and the court premises saw heavy crowds as Thackeray arrived for the hearing.

The case stems from allegations that Thackeray and MNS workers targeted candidates from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh who had come to appear for the Railway Recruitment Board exam in 2008. In all, 54 cases were registered against him and party members. He was granted bail at the time on a surety of Rs 1 lakh.

Acting on a Bombay High Court directive, Thackeray surrendered before the court in June 2009 after his anticipatory bail was set aside. The High Court had concluded that custodial interrogation was not required but agreed with the state government that the anticipatory bail granted earlier by a lower court had become infructuous.

Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS release videos alleging Maharashtra government corruption

The Shiv Sena (UBT) and the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) on Tuesday released separate videos alleging corruption within the Maharashtra government, triggering sharp political exchanges during the winter session of the state legislature in Nagpur. In a video shared by Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Ambadas Danve, Alibaug MLA Mahendra Dalvi from the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction is allegedly seen handling a large bundle of cash. Dalvi has denied the allegation.

Speaking to the media in Nagpur, Dalvi said the video had been manipulated and held no truth. He also hinted, without naming him directly, that Ajit Pawar, led NCP leader and MP Sunil Tatkare, was involved. “Someone from Raigad is behind all this,” Dalvi said. Although both Tatkare and Dalvi belong to the Mahayuti alliance, the two are known for frequently taking jabs at each other. “Attempts are being made to tarnish my image. I am willing to resign as MLA if this video is proven genuine,” Dalvi added.

The video circulated by Danve sparked uproar on the second day of the winter session. While Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders demanded action, Shinde Sena ministers defended their MLA. Responding to Dalvi’s allegations, Danve said the MLA should first prove the video is fake rather than questioning its source. “I stand by what I have said,” Danve asserted.

Tatkare also hit back, criticising Dalvi for dragging him into the controversy. “I haven’t spoken to Danve, not even over the phone. Why would I involve myself in something like this? I deal with issues directly, not in such a manner [with opposition's help],” the MP from Raigad said.

Meanwhile, in Mumbai, MNS leader Sandeep Deshpande held a press conference alleging large-scale corruption in the public works department. He also showed a video in which an alleged PWD employee is seen handling cash. “This money is taken for clearing tenders and for processing pending contractor bills,” Deshpande claimed.

(With PTI inputs)

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