Shiv Sena asks Supreme Court not to cross Lakshman Rekha on beliefs

After Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray expressed his displeasure over the Supreme Court’s restrictions on Dahi Handi, Shiv Sena too criticised the court ruling, saying, “The courts should not cross the Laxman Rekha of beliefs in Hindu festivals.”

“Ganeshotsav, Dahi Handi and Navratra festival are all parts of our beliefs. The festivals and rituals of Hindus will continue to take place. Courts should not cross the Lakshman Rekha at least in these issues. People will thwart any attempts to hinder celebration of Hindu festivals,” an editorial in Sena mouthpiece Saamana said.

The party also said it is ready to lead people’s dissent over the ‘curbs’ on Hindu festivals. “There is anger among people because of the ‘fatwas’ (diktats) of the courts on festivals,” it said. “People have elected their government in a democratic manner. Let the government do its job. The head atop the government’s body knows what’s right and wrong. If an attempt is made to remove this head and murder democracy, then all tiers of national system will collapse,” it said.

A couple of days ago, Raj Thackeray had slammed the verdict, saying the courts should not interfere in festivals. “Why curbs on festivals celebrated by Hindus You can’t stand on stool to break Dahi Hani,” he had said. Seconding him, the Sena said, “When courts take on the role of government, they should be ready to face mudslinging. This is because courts are taking all decisions a government is expected to take.”

The SC on Wednesday restricted the height of Dahi Handis to 20 feet and allowed those only above 18 to participate in them.