Controversy over the memorial for Shiv Sena supremo Bal Thackeray continued on Thursday after Congress leader Narayan Rane questioned legal aspects of it. Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis had two days ago announced the setting up of the memorial at the Mayor’s bungalow in Shivaji Park area. However, the Congress leader said the property comes under Coastal Regulatory Zone (CRZ) and is a heritage structure. Mr Rane also alleged that the memorial announcement was a ‘political deal’ between Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray and the CM.
“I am not against erecting the memorial. Balasaheb was tall leader and he should be given respect posthumously. But the place of mayor’s bungalow announced by the CM comes under CRZ and it is a heritage structure. Also, no permission was taken yet by the Cabinet or the BMC. Due legal process has not been followed,” Mr Rane said. The Congress leader agreed that the memorial should be built in Dadar area.
“The way Mr Fadnavis and Uddhav announced about the memorial indicated that there was some political deal behind it. The CM is trying to save his chair and the Sena wants to grab the Mayor’s bungalow and land surrounding it. But, Sena should remember that Balasaheb never compromised for power and money,” he added.
Estranged cousin of Uddhav, MNS chief Raj Thackeray had made similar allegations two days ago. He had termed the memorial announcement as ‘land grab’ by Shiv Sena.
Earlier in the day, industries minister and Shiv Sena leader Subhash Desai tried to downplay any controversy on the issue. “Those who do not want to work create controversy. Let them do so. We ignore them and believe in doing our work,” Mr Desai said.
