Bombay HC Moved Against Raj Thackeray Over Alleged Hate Speech and Violence

Sunil Shukla, National President of the Uttar Bhartiya Vikas Sena, has filed a petition in the Bombay High Court seeking police protection, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe, and strict action against Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray for alleged hate speech, threats, and violence targeting north Indians.

Shukla, who had earlier approached the Supreme Court but withdrew his plea on the court’s advice, has also urged the Election Commission of India to take action under the Representation of the People Act, 1951, including derecognition of the MNS for allegedly promoting enmity between communities.

In his plea, he alleged that on 6 October 2024, about 30 MNS workers and supporters barged into his party office and attempted to damage property. Following this, he and his family allegedly began receiving threat calls. Despite filing complaints and following up for 10 months, no police action was taken.

He has also requested interim relief by seeking a ban on Raj Thackeray from delivering provocative speeches until the case is decided.

Earlier petitions against Thackeray, including one by advocate Ghanshyam Dayalu Upadhyay, alleged that his repeated anti-Hindi remarks and speeches had deepened divisions between Marathi and Hindi-speaking communities. The Supreme Court, however, declined to hear those petitions and allowed petitioners to approach the High Court instead.

The matter will now be heard by the Bombay High Court, which will decide whether further investigation and legal action are warranted.