Maha Vikas Aghadi Calls Maharashtra Bandh: Thane Protests Spark Controversy

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray dismisses claims of political motives behind Tuesday's Badlapur protest over an alleged sexual assault on two kindergarten girls. The MVA has scheduled a bandh on August 24 to raise awareness about women's safety. Numerous arrests were made following violent clashes during the protest.

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief, Uddhav Thackeray, has disregarded any allegations of political motives behind Tuesday's Badlapur protest, labeling those who believe otherwise as either abnormal or protectors of the culprits.

Thackeray contended there was no political motive in the opposition bloc Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA)'s call for a bandh on August 24. He emphasized that the move aims to prioritize women's security and awaken the government to the issue.

A massive protest erupted in Badlapur, Thane district, after the alleged sexual assault of two four-year-old girls by a male attendant. The unrest led to stone-pelting, injuries to 25 police personnel, and 72 arrests. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde claimed the protests were politically motivated, involving mostly outsiders.

(With inputs from agencies.)