Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut on Thursday hits out at BJP over the arrest of journalist Arnab Goswami by saying, “BJP wants to protest over it, they may do it as everyone has that right in democracy.”
“If someone is arrested under Sec 306 (abetment to suicide) and 307 (attempt to murder), and BJP wants to protest over it, they may do it as everyone has that right in a democracy. But, I can ensure that injustice won’t be done to anyone,” Sanjay Raut was quoted as saying by ANI.
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An editorial in Sena mouthpiece ”Saamana” said it was surprising that central ministers along with state BJP leaders should say there was an “Emergency-like situation” in Maharashtra due to Mr Goswami’s arrest.
Mr Goswami was arrested by police on Wednesday from his home in Mumbai for allegedly abetting the suicide of interior designer Anvay Naik.
Mr Goswami and two others were booked under charges of abetment of suicide and common intention in connection with the suicide of Mr Naik and the latter’s mother over alleged non-payment of dues by Republic TV.
The editorial in ”Saamana” alleged that the previous state government “covered up” Mr Naik’s suicide case to protect Mr Goswami.
It further claimed that a journalist was arrested in Gujarat for writing against the state government, while in Uttar Pradesh, journalists have been killed.
“Nobody felt these incidents were reminders of the Emergency. In fact, the state BJP leaders should demand justice for Anvay Naik, a son of the soil,” the editorial said.
“An innocent man died by suicide along with his aged mother. The dead man’s wife is demanding justice and the police are following the law,” it said.
“Where is the question of the fourth pillar (of democracy) being attacked? Those who are saying this are attempting to trample the first pillar,” the editorial said.
Everyone including prime ministers are equal before the law of the land, it said.
(With inputs from PTI)
