Mumbai: A Maharashtra bandh called by Opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) on Saturday has been called off as the Opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) withdrew its proposed state-wide shutdown after the Bombay High Court’s order. The MVA, comprising the Congress, Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) and NCP (SP) headed by Sharad Pawar, had called the bandh to protest sexual assault on two minor girls in a school in Badlapur in Thane district.
Why HC restrained MVA from observing Maharashtra bandh
The HC on Friday restrained political parties or individuals from proceeding with the bandh on August 24 or any future date, saying such a protest will lead to crippling the life of entire Maharashtra. A division bench of Chief Justice DK Upadhyaya and Justice Amit Borkar said that the bandh would adversely impact emergency services such as those related to health and other public conveniences like supply of electricity, water and running of local trains in Mumbai.
The court also said that the bandh would lead to cessation of all kinds of activities that may entail heavy loss to industrial activities, business activities, economic activities and basic amenities including health services.
MVA to hold peaceful protests
The MVA had given a call for a state-wide bandh on August 24 (Saturday) to protest against the Mahayuti government over the sexual abuse of two kindergarten girls earlier this month and “rising” incidents of crime against women in Maharashtra.
The MVA said it has called off the bandh, but it will hold a peaceful demonstration across the state with black bands tied on the mouth of its leaders and workers. Maharashtra Congress president Nana Patole said peaceful demonstrations will take place between 11 and noon at different locations in the state. Patole said he will take part in one such demonstration in Thane. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray said he will protest near the Shiv Sena Bhavan in Dadar.
