Questions Raised Over Police Action and Heavy Deployment in Delhi
The heavy deployment of security forces and recent police actions during protests in the national capital have sparked intense political debate. Amidst this backdrop, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray launched a scathing attack on the central administration during a public address in Mumbai. He questioned the rationale behind deploying thousands of police personnel on Delhi streets, sarcastically asking if they were called in to play Dandiya during the festive season.
Thackeray emphasized that in a democratic framework, raising questions against government policies and staging peaceful protests are fundamental rights of every citizen. He alleged that women and youth faced high-handedness during the demonstrations, which is unacceptable in a civilized society. He urged citizens to unite to protect democratic institutions from being undermined.
Open Support for Prashant Bhushan's Regime Change Call
Senior advocate Prashant Bhushan's recent remarks advocating for a 'regime change' during a press conference had triggered a massive political uproar. Echoing those sentiments, Uddhav Thackeray extended his complete support to the statement. Thackeray stated that if the ruling administration continues to snatch away the rights of citizens to express their opinions and stage protests through democratic means, standing up to uproot such power becomes imperative.
Thackeray reiterated that dissent is not a crime in a democracy. When basic constitutional freedoms are curtailed, demanding a change in leadership is the legitimate right of the people.
Criticism Over Political Rhetoric and Fear of Dissent
Referring to recent media reports regarding the burning of cockroach effigies during Dussehra festivities, Thackeray took a sharp jibe at the ruling dispensation. He remarked that those who claim to bring Lord Rama are ironically terrified of a mere cockroach, highlighting the growing intolerance towards public criticism and satire.
Thackeray maintained that their political struggle is not aimed at acquiring power for its own sake, but rather to safeguard the core values of the Indian Constitution against authoritarian tendencies.
