By IANS
New Delhi : Four days after the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) targeted north Indians in Mumbai, damaging taxis and vandalising theatres, Home Minister Shivraj Patil Wednesday stepped in to ask the state government to provide protection to the “vulnerable”.
In a statement, Patil directed the state authorities to also ensure that no individual or group of persons was intimidated, attacked or their properties targeted and damaged.
“The state government has been asked to take necessary action against the miscreants indulging in such activities without delay and to provide protection to those who may need it or may be vulnerable,” the statement said.
“People from Maharashtra and all parts of the country are living here and have enjoyed prosperity and faced adversity together. Mumbai has always been a symbol of unity which in no case should be disturbed or allowed to be disturbed and damaged.”
Trouble broke out in the state Sunday after clashes between Raj Thackeray’s MNS and Samajwadi Party (SP) workers.
As a direct consequence of the clashes, MNS supporters began attacking taxi drivers and pushcart vendors from north India setting off a cycle of violence in the state.
A group of MNS workers also tried to ransack the office of Sanjay Nirupam, a Congress spokesperson and former Shiv Sainik, who planned to lead a protest march to Raj Thackeray’s house in Shivaji Park. The police foiled the MNS plan, while taking Nirupam’s supporters into custody.
Superstar Amitabh Bachchan’s home was also attacked.
Appealing to everyone, Patil hoped people would not allow the peace and harmony to be disturbed.
“Mumbai all through its history has drawn people from far and near and its people are well known for their broad-mindedness and hospitality. They should see that this reputation of the city of the State is not allowed to be tarnished in any way.”
Chief Minister Vilasrao Deshmukh has asked state police chief P.S. Pasricha to conduct a high-level probe into the clashes between MNS and SP workers and warned both parties against politicising the issue.