'Won't Let Your Vehicle Leave Mantralaya': Sanjay Raut Targets Devendra Fadnavis, Backs MPSC Stir In Pune

Pune: Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut has come out in full support of the ongoing MPSC students' protest staged by NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar at SM Joshi Bridge, urging the government to listen to their grievances and engage in talks with them. On Sunday, Raut addressed the protesters, warning the Maharashtra government against disregarding the students’ demands.

"Let these slogans reach Devendra Fadnavis. He is pretending to be deaf. Thousands of these children are protesting in Pune. This is Maharashtra’s Jantar Mantar," Raut said. He questioned the government's claim that the students’ demands have been addressed, asking why the protesters are still on the streets if their grievances have already been resolved.

Raut also alleged that the government is attempting to create divisions within the agitation. "I have learnt that the government has tried to create a division within your protest. If the government had a pure intention, it would have held extensive discussions with you. It would have discussed the issue with Rohit Pawar and understood your demands," he said.

Backing the demand for changes in the Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC), Raut said, "The demand is to cleanse the MPSC Commission." He targeted the state administration, warning, "You are ruining a generation. Where will you pay for this sin?" He also alleged that "white-collar mafias" are controlling the system. Raut cautioned the government against underestimating the strength of the student movement, stating that if the youths' discontent spreads across the state, they will not let any vehicle leave Mantralaya.

He praised the role of Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray in supporting the protesting youth and pledged his own support, saying, "If there is a struggle to be fought, if we have to face lathi charges, I will be standing in front with all of you. I am proud of all of you." Raut concluded his address, assuring the protesters of unity beyond political affiliations and said, "There is no political party here; Maharashtra is here."