Mumbai: A controversy has erupted over the removal of a portrait of Prime Minister Narendra Modi from an educational institute in Pune.
The BJP protest the move, slamming Amit Thackeray for saying that the PM’s portrait could not be placed next to that of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
On Monday, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray defended his son over the removal of Modi’s picture, reiterating that the PM’s photo cannot be placed alongside those of icons like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Babasaheb Ambedkar and Mahatma Jyotiba Phule.
“No one’s picture can be put in the same line with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Babasaheb Ambedkar, Mahatma Jyotiba Phule. The PM’s picture can be displayed in government offices, but it has to be placed on another wall and not on the same wall as other great leaders. Everyone must follow this. People must make corrections now,” Raj said at an MNS conclave in Thane.
Raj attacked the BJP, saying that people’s minds were being occupied with trivia instead of real issues, and while belief in God and pride for one’s religion was understandable, it was not the same as being blinded by religion.
“Hatred is being spread on social media so that people don’t focus on real issues. I don’t want people to be fanatics,” Raj said.
He feared that riots could break out during the upcoming Ganeshotsav, and urged Hindus and Muslims to be alert and aware. Raj also alleged that an attempt was being made to drive a wedge between Marathis and non-Marathis, who were being taught to say ‘Marathi lok kya ukhadenge (What can Marathi people do)’.