Uddhav Thackeray Demands Justice: Urges Maharashtra Government to Withdraw Cases Against Badlapur Protesters in Emotional Plea
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray urged the immediate withdrawal of charges against individuals who protested the alleged sexual abuse of two kindergarten girls in Badlapur. Speaking at a press conference in Mumbai on August 23, 2024, Thackeray announced that the opposition alliance Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) has called for a ‘Maharashtra Bandh’ on August 24 to protest against what he termed as ‘perversion.’ He urged citizens from all backgrounds to join the strike, which should be observed strictly until 2 P.M., while ensuring the operation of essential services.
Thackeray condemned the administration led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde for arresting protesters involved in the Badlapur demonstrations. The protests, which began on Tuesday, saw thousands block railway tracks in Thane’s Badlapur to express anger over the alleged assault by a male school staff member, who is in police custody until August 26. So far, 72 people have been arrested in connection with the unrest.
The former Chief Minister emphasized that the bandh aims to raise awareness about women’s safety rather than serving political interests. He dismissed claims that the protests were politically motivated, stating that those who believe otherwise are either ‘abnormal’ or defending the perpetrators. Thackeray highlighted the need for the state police, led by woman officer DGP Rashmi Shukla, to cooperate and avoid using force against the demonstrators, praising Shukla as a true ‘Ladli Bhen.’
Thackeray questioned Chief Minister Shinde’s whereabouts during the protests and reiterated that the movement’s focus is solely on prioritizing women’s safety and awakening the government to this critical issue.
Photo Credit: Emmanual Yogini
Original Story https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/maharashtra/withdraw-cases-against-badlapur-protesters-uddhav-thackeray-urges-maharashtra-govt/article68557871.ece
Category :
Tags:
