Maharashtra government has taken serious note of the attack on NCP legislator Jeetendra Awhad and assured of his security, Revenue Minister Eknath Khadse told the Legislative Assembly on Wednesday.
Dilip Walse Patil of NCP raised the issue of Awhad’s manhandling in Sangli, the damage to his car and threats over phone and social media, in the Assembly.
Walse Patil said NCP chief Sharad Pawar has expressed concern over a recent attempt to attack on Awhad in a letter written to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
“Lately, people putting forth the pragmatic and progressive views are being targeted in Maharshtra. Such threats to pragmatic personalities is a shame for Maharshtra and the rising intolerance in the state is a cause of concern,” Pawar had said.
He also said that Chief Minister, who is also the Home minister, would take note of the threats being given to Awhad. Pawar also sought adequate protection for Awhad.
“I am confident that you would not want anything untoward to happen to Awhad. As the CM and as head of the home department, you cannot evade your responsibility,” Pawar stated in his letter.
“Awhad is a prominent Other Backward Caste (OBC) leader and an active member of the Assembly. I am sure that you will take due cognisance of the threats to him,” Pawar felt.
Speaking in the Assembly today, Walse Patil said the attackers are yet to be traced. Speaker Haribhau Bagde asked the government to make a statement in this regard.
To which, Khadse said the government is committed to protect lives of citizens and not just MLAs. “Threats to Awhad will be probed and his security will be taken care of,” he said.
