Pune: The rally of Shiv Pratishthan Hindustan (SPH) in support of its leader Sambhaji Bhide was planned on Wednesday across Maharashtra. In Pune, the rally was to commence from Shaniwarwada at 10.30 am and march till district collector’s office. However, on Tuesday the city police denied permission for the rally.
The rally would have passed through Lal Mahal, Phadke Chowk and Narpatgiri Chowk.
The rallies are being held in wake of allegations made against Bhide stating that he was involved in Koregaon-Bhima riots and a large turnout of people was expected. Members of Shiv Pratishthan Hindustan claimed that Bhide has been falsely implicated in riots by some people with vested interests and he has always worked selflessly for the people.
It is significant to note that Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday has given a clean chit to Bhide and made a statement that he was not involved in Koregaon-Bhima riots. He stated that there is no evidence against Bhide which indicates his involvement in riots.
Nitin Chowgale, a member of Shiv Pratishthan Hindustan, said, “People are going to join the rally in lakhs across the State. In Pune, we expected a turnout of 25,000 people whereas in Sangli its going to be in lakhs. We have been given permission almost everywhere including Belgaum and Goa. However, the administration has not given us permission to carry out a protest rally in Mumbai, Yavatmal and Ratnagiri.”
Various right-wing organisations including Samasta Hindu Aghadi, Bajrang Dal, Vishwa Hindu Parishad, Sanatan Sanstha and Hindu Janjagruti Samiti are going to take part in the rallies.
