FIR against Amit Thackeray for forcing removal of PM Modi’s photo placed near Shivaji Maharaj at Pune govt college; BJP calls it political immaturity | Pune News
Pune: Chatushrungi police on Monday evening registered a case against MNS chief Raj Thackeray’s son Amit Thackeray and 20-25 others for allegedly removing the photo of Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Govt Polytechnic institute in Pune. Amit objected to the PM’s photo being installed next to that of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, a move that BJP termed ‘immature’.The case has been registered under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) relating to criminal trespass, unlawful assembly and other relevant offences. The PM’s photo was placed back at the institute after the uproar.The controversy erupted during Thackeray’s visit to educational institutions in the city as part of a student outreach programme. “Some of his supporters pointed out that the PM’s photo was placed next to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s portrait. He objected and asked that the photograph be removed,” a student present at the institute said.Soon after, MNS workers allegedly took down the PM’s photo from the wall, triggering a strong criticism from BJP. Pune Municipal Corporation Leader of the House Ganesh Bidkar condemned the act, calling it “politically immature”. He said: “Photographs of the President and Prime Minister are displayed at govt establishments as per official protocol. The PM represents the nation, not a political party. Those responsible for removing the photograph should have been aware of this.”Amit defended his stand and linked it to respect for Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. “The first case registered against me was regarding an incident connected to Shivaji Maharaj. If a second case is also filed for the same reason, I will be happy about it,” he told reporters.
