Raj Thackeray spoke against dance bars in Raigad. Hours later, his party workers vandalised a bar near Mumbai.
Raj Thackeray’s Speech Triggers Fresh Wave of Violence in Maharashtra
A fresh wave of politically driven vandalism erupted in Panvel, near Mumbai, after Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray made a strong statement against dance bars operating in Raigad district. Shortly after his speech at a Kisan Mazdoor Party meeting, MNS supporters reportedly vandalised a dance bar, citing it as a response to the growing bar culture in a region symbolic of Maratha heritage.
What Happened: Dance Bar Targeted After Speech
- Location of Incident: Night Riders Bar, Panvel
- Time: Around midnight
- Attackers: Over a dozen MNS workers armed with sticks
- Damage Reported: Furniture smashed, liquor bottles broken, property vandalised
Videos circulated on social media showed MNS workers storming the premises, shattering glasses, and breaking tables inside the bar.
What Raj Thackeray Said in Panvel
During his address, Raj Thackeray questioned the presence of dance bars in Raigad:
“Raigad district has the most dance bars. So many bars—who owns them? Are they all owned by Marathi people? This is our Raigad, the capital of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. We are being evicted while others profit from this culture.”
His remarks sparked an immediate and aggressive reaction from party workers in the area.
Police Launch Investigation, MNS Calls It ‘Symbolic Protest’
The Raigad police have begun an investigation. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage and recording witness statements.
Meanwhile, MNS leader Sandip Deshpande justified the attack:
“This was a symbolic protest. These bars are illegal, and immediate action was necessary. The government should take note.”
Background: MNS’s History of Aggressive Protests
Raj Thackeray’s MNS has previously been accused of:
- Assaulting non-Marathi speakers
- Forcing people to speak Marathi in public spaces
- Vandalising businesses they view as culturally inappropriate
Conclusion: Tensions Rise as Political Provocation Sparks Street Violence
This latest incident once again brings focus to mob politics and vigilante justice in Maharashtra. While Raj Thackeray continues to push for Marathi pride, critics argue that such rhetoric fuels lawlessness and intimidation under the guise of cultural preservation.
Also Read : “Slapped, Hit, Threatened: MNS Goons Attack Coaching Head in Mumbai Over ‘High Fees'”
