Thackeray cousins revive anti-immigrant campaign

In the run up to the BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation, the estranged Thackeray cousins – Shiv Sena executive president Uddhav and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj – have again upped the ante against immigrants from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, to appease the pro-Marathi votebank.

This time, in the line of fire are auto rikshaw drivers from Mumbai and the Thane. A large number of the auto drivers are being attacked by both Shiv Sena and MNS workers for not accepting short route fares and their opposition to the installation of electronic meters. Both parties have indicated that the migrants would have to toe their line or face their wrath.

Workers are from both parties are engaged in one up manship over damaging auto rikshaws and beating drivers “in the larger interest of protecting the commuter. However, the violent attacks have embarassed the Sena's ally, the Bharatiya Janata Party, which has condemned the incidents. The Maharashtra BJP has expressed concerns that supporting the Shiv Sena could be suicidal during the civic body elections.

Auto rikshaw union leaders Sharad Rao and Abu Azmi have appealed to the state government to take action against Shiv Sena and MNS workers for perpetrating violence.

On its part, the state home minister R R Patil has announced that due action will be taken against those involved in attacking drivers and damaging auto rikshaws. However, the ruling Congress and NCP, who are undecided over contesting the coming elections jointly, have been mere observers.

Raj Thackeray had criticised Rao's stand against installating electronic meters and his inaction against errant rikshaw drivers. He had said his party workers will organise an "MNS style" retaliation against north Indian rikshaw drivers.

On the other hand, Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut said the party would support passengers against arrogant auto rikshaw drivers who were responsible for causing inconvinience to them. The Thackeray’s had earlier blamed migrants for spreading malaria in Maharashtra last year and had also said the influx of north Indians had resulted in terror attacks in Mumbai. Further, the Shiv Sena and MNS had attacked north Indian immigrants who had arrived in Mumbai to appear for examinations held by PSUs.