In a significant political development in Maharashtra, Raj Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray are set to lead a massive Tiranga Yatra to protest against the NEET paper leak case. Raj Thackeray has officially announced this initiative through a letter, stating that the march will be held without any political party flags. The protest is scheduled to take place tomorrow, marking a rare moment of coordination between the two leaders on a public issue.
The Purpose of the Tiranga March
Raj Thackeray addressed a letter to all Maharashtra Sainiks and Shiv Sainiks, extending his greetings and explaining the rationale behind the march. He stated that the Tiranga March, scheduled for July 26, is being organized to protest against the irregularities in the NEET examination, the ongoing student protests, and the government's attempts to suppress these movements. He mentioned that instructions regarding the march have already been disseminated through the leaders and central offices of both parties.
A Peaceful Protest Against Central Authorities
According to Raj Thackeray, the Tiranga March is intended to register a peaceful protest against the attitude of the Central Government and the Delhi Police. He emphasized that the objective is to send a strong message that the entire state of Maharashtra stands firmly with the students and their families. This includes those who are unable to travel to Delhi or Mumbai to voice their grievances personally. The march aims to provide a platform for the collective anger of the youth and their parents.
Strict Non-Political Guidelines
Raj Thackeray has explicitly stated that this will be a completely non-political march. He has issued strict instructions that no political party flags should be displayed during the event. Plus, no slogans should be raised in support of any political party or its leaders. He even requested that supporters refrain from chanting slogans in his name or Uddhav Thackeray's name. The focus, he insisted, must remain solely on protesting against the government and supporting the students and youth across the country.
Safety and Conduct During the Yatra
The letter also touched upon the conduct of the participants. Raj Thackeray expressed confidence that no one would dare to obstruct the march, given the strength of the supporters. However, he cautioned that if anyone attempts to disrupt the atmosphere, raise inappropriate slogans, or misbehave with parents, especially women and female students, they should be peacefully handed over to the police. In areas where police presence might be thin, he urged his supporters to use their experience and capability to handle the situation appropriately.
Logistics and Final Appeal
Raj Thackeray concluded his letter by appealing to the Maharashtra Sainiks and Shiv Sainiks to participate in large numbers. He urged them to bring as many students and parents as possible, ensuring their safety throughout the march and helping them reach home securely. He expressed his belief that the Maharashtra Police would support the cause as it concerns the future of children. The march is set to begin on July 26 at 10 AM, with participants gathering at the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Shivaji Park, Mumbai. He invited everyone to join and show the authorities in Delhi the extent of public outrage.
