BJP MLA compares Sanatan with SIMI, seeks ban for "spreading

A BJP MLA today sought a ban on Sanatan Sanstha, whose member was arrested in connection with the murder of Left leader Govind Pansare, for "creating terror" like Students and Islamic Movement of India (SIMI).
Sanatan Sanstha, headquartered at Ramnathi Ashram in North Goa district, is under the scanner since the arrest of Sameer Gaikwad in connection with Pansare's killing earlier this year and the alleged role of absconding member Rudra Patil in the 2009 Madgaon blast.
"Violence is not an answer to ideological differences. These things are being done to create terror. I feel that like SIMI, 'Sanatan Sanstha' should also be banned," Vishnu Wagh, a prominent BJP leader who represents St Andre constituency, said here today.

Wagh, also a writer, claimed that Sanatan was banned in some countries.
"Sanatan is active in various countries. They are banned in some countries. They are spreading their tentacles everywhere," the legislator said.
Referring to the "proactive" stand of the BJP-led state government in banning entry of controversial Sri Ram Sene leader Pramod Muthalik in the state till January 14, 2016, Wagh said such action is needed against Sanatan.

"Muthalik was banned even before he could enter the state. Muthalik had done nothing in Goa but still we took proactive steps. Such steps are required against Sanatan Sanstha," the MLA said.

Sanatan has already ruled out its or Gaikwad's role in Pansare's murder.
The chorus for banning Sanatan is growing since the arrest of Gaikwad and purported similarities between murders of Pansare and Kannada scholar M M Kalburgi, with the NCP and Congress in Maharashtra separately raising the pitch for outlawing the organisation.