Mumbai: The Maharashtra state government, which has failed on all fronts, including the fight against the coronavirus pandemic, justice to farmers, is now trying to suppress public discontent. The Maharashtra State BJP chief spokesperson Keshav Upadhye has alleged that the government is trying to stifle freedom of expression by filing cases against journalists and social media activists who are articulating their views against the Maha Vikas Aghadi government in the state.
He said, “Everyone has the right to express their views and if one does not agree with the views expressed, one can seek redressal through legal means.” Upadhye also questioned, “Why intellectuals, thinkers and journalists in the state are silent about intolerance towards criticism against the government and ruling party leaders.”
“A news series was published recently in the daily local newspapers highlighting the mismanagement of the measures being taken by the government in Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad) to deal with the situation caused by the spread of Corona. After checking the veracity of this news, instead of taking action against the concerned officers and employees, charges were filed against six persons including the editors of Marathi newspapers and others,” he added.
NCP chief Sharad Pawar had expressed displeasure over Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray was referred to by singular name by journalists but the government had taken a stand against the same journalists. The fact is that they had to go to court and get justice.
He went on, “Attempts to expose corruption and misconduct in government affairs is being seen as a crime the Maha Aghadi government has started trying to suppress the voice against its rule. The Editor of a Beed newspaper was arrested directly. Crimes have been registered against 18 people for reporting against the government during the lockdown.” He added, “Police are filing cases against anyone who has taken a stand against the ruling party leaders through social media. Notices are being issued to many on social media and criminal cases are being filed against them.”