Raj no different from British: Netizen
Shobhit Sujay
Tuesday, May 06, 2008, (New Delhi)
The anti-migrant drive by Raj Thackeray in Maharashtra has not remained confined to the state and has, in fact, spread throughout the nation and even spilled over to the virtual world.
The netizens at NDTV.com have reacted to the issue and have expressed their opinions to be heard and considered by sincere citizens who are affected by such incidents against humanity.
"I strongly feel this is not a one sided affair. If you are planning to live in Maharashtra, then what is wrong in learning Marathi? Can you survive in Chennai if you don't know Tamil or English? Yes, I strongly believe that Mumbai has its own spirit and soul. We should not forget that Mumbai is the capital of Maharashtra and people of the state deserve at least equal chance in employment if not more," says Jack from India.
However, there are many who have spoken against Raj Thackeray and have criticised him strongly for the attacks carried out by him on the migrants and the speeches made by him that have spread hatred among communities.
"What has Raj or the other Thackerays done for Maharasthra? Let alone Mumbai. These people have lived protected lives with their security guaranteed by the police and have been involved in spreading hatred and communal strife to hoodwink the poor people," says our surfer Joseph from United Arab Emirates.
Although some of the netizens have not stood for Raj Thackeray but have certainly raised some points against the Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan.
"As for Amitabh, he has made himself a symbol of migrants. Just look at what he was when he came to Mumbai and what the condition of Mumbai at that time was? And then look at him now - what is his condition and that of Mumbai now? His condition has improved but that of Mumbai has deteriorated," says Anil from Kuwait.
On the other hand, many netizens have gone on to take a decisive view over the politics being practiced by the likes of Raj Thackeray.
"People like Raj Thackeray are not different from the British who ruled over us till 60 years back. It is shocking that they still use the divide and rule policy. It is important for people to understand that we are Indians first and then Kannadigas or Maharashtrians," says Nikesh Dhar from India.
The citizens of the web world have spoken and have registered their strong opinion on the Big B-Raj spat.
Well, we invite more of such responses from you to know and let others know. Meanwhile, the virtual world is abuzz with many issues of national importance.