Is Raj Thackeray running parallel government in Maharashtra, asks Congress

'Fadnavis is deliberately creating fear about Raj Thackeray in the minds of citizens,' Sanjay Nirupam said

Mumbai Congress President Sanjay Nirupam on Monday said Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis should make it clear if Maharashtra Navnirman Sena Chief Raj Thackeray is running a "parallel government" in the state.

"(Actor) Shah Rukh Khan meets Raj seeking permission for release of his film Raees. Who is Raj Thackeray that film makers and artistes are seeking his permission rather than that of the Censor board?...Is Raj Thackeray running a parallel government? Fadnavis should clarify," Nirupam said.

"Ensuring smooth release of a film and maintenance of law and order is the job of the state government. Currently some people are indulging in extortion in the guise of patriotism.

"The state government is supporting such elements and Fadnavis is deliberately creating fear about Raj Thackeray in the minds of citizens," the Congress leader said.

The earlier Congress-led government in Maharashtra had ensured a smooth release of Shah Rukh Khan's film My Name Is Khan when Shiv Sena threatened to disrupt its screenings, Nirupam pointed out.

MNS, which is opposed to Pakistani artistes working in India on Monday said that Shah Rukh assured party chief Raj Thackeray that Pakistani actor Mahira Khan, who features in his upcoming Raees, will not promote the film in India.