Sena, BJP threaten to stall functioning of legislature

MUMBAI: The Shiv Sena-BJP combine on Sunday warned the Maharashtra government that it would not allow the legislature to function unless those involved in desecrating a bust of Sena chief Bal Thackeray's late wife were brought to book in the next 24 hours.

Addressing a press conference here, Sena Executive President Uddhav Thackeray and BJP leader Gopinath Munde said the alliance will raise the issue in the legislature on Monday.

"The government cannot be a mute spectator to such incidents and buckle under pressure from a handful of people. It should take strong action against such elements who intend to cause disaffection in society," Munde said.

Munde warned that unless those who desecrated the bust of Meenatai Thackeray were apprehended within 24 hours from the happening of the incident, the Shiv Sena and BJP would not let the legislature function.

Earlier, Uddhav Thackeray condemned the incident and denied the Sena had incited its cadres for the violence that erupted followed the desecration. "It was a spontaneous reaction by the Sainiks," he said.

Sainiks perform purification ritual on bust:

Meanwhile, Sainiks led by senior party leader Manohar Joshi performed a purification ritual on the desecrated bust of the late Meenatai Thackeray at Shivaji Park in central Mumbai.

Joshi, joined by party leader Vishakha Raut performed an 'abhishek' of milk before offering garlands to the bust of the late wife of the Shiv Sena chief.