Shiv Pratishtan will march in support of chief

Pune: Sri Shiv Pratishthan, Hindustan – right-wing leader Sambhaji Bhide’s organisation – will hold a march in all 38 districts of Maharashtra, demanding withdrawal of all cases against Mr Bhide and institution of an inquiry against those who have accused Mr Bhide of inciting violence at Bhima-Koregaon on January 1 this year.

The rally, “Bhide Guruji Sanman Mahamorcha” will be organised at the headquarters of each district and will culminate with a letter being given to all the collectors. Organisers claimed that a few thousands would participate in the march in each district.

Sanjay Jadhar, member of Sri Shiv Pratishthan, said, “Mr Bhide and also Milind Ekbote have been selflessly working for nation-building by inculcating values taught by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Sambhaji Maharaj. Mr Bhide has reached out to lakhs of youths with the Shiv Charitra. Why would he be involved in inciting violence?”

Parashar Mone, another member, said, “Jignesh Mevani, Umar Khalid and B.G. Kolase-Patil gave inflammatory talks at the Elgar Parishad at Shanivarwada organised on December 31, a day before the riots. Even their pamphlets were full of inflammatory content. Prakash Amebdkar is accusing Mr Bhide and Mr Ekbote by listening to other people. These other people, and Mr Ambedkar should also be taken into custody.”

“Some people are accusing Mr Bhide for political gains. However, Mr Bhide had not gone to the area around Bhima-Koregaon on the days of the riots or before that. “, he said.