NCP demands security for Awhad, others

The NCP demanded Wednesday that its leader Jitendra Awhad and activists including Mukta Dabholkar be provided with police security, as there is a threat to their lives from a right-wing Hindu organisation.

State NCP chief Jayant Patil, senior leader Chhagan Bhujbal and former deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar met Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis in this regard.

Talking to reporters later, Pawar said the party sought "Y Plus" security to Awhad as well as social activists Shyam Manav and Mukta Dabholkar.

Fadnavis assured that he will look into the matter, Pawar said.

Patil said all those who are allegedly on the hit-list of right-wing Hindu groups should be given police protection.

The Anti-Terrorism Squad of Maharashtra police had told the sessions court here last week that Awhad, Manav and Mukta Dabholkar, daughter of slain rationalist Narendra Dabholkar, were on the hit list of alleged right-wing activist Avinash Pawar.

Pawar and his associates had carried out reconnaissance of Awhad and others' houses, the ATS had said while seeking Pawar's custody.