MUMBAI/KALYAN: The BJP’s Jan Ashirwad Yatra (JAY) has become the latest flashpoint in the conflict between the party and its former ally, the Shiv Sena. On Wednesday, Sena MP Sanjay Raut alleged the yatra would be “an invitation to the third wave of Covid.”
The Jan Ashirwad Yatra was launched a week ago by recently inducted ministers of state in the Union cabinet Kapil Patil, Bharti Pawar and Bhagwat Karad from the BJP. Speaking to the media, Sena’s Raut said, “Everyone knows that ‘Jan Ashirwad Yatra’ is nothing but a show of strength and will be an invitation for the third wave of Covid. But it is being done deliberately to trouble the state government.”
Responding to Raut, BJP’s Kapil Patil said, “There are always huge crowds at Sena’s programs. So doesn’t Covid spread in Sena rallies? If BJP does something, how does Corona get an invitation immediately?” He claimed around 8,000-10,000 people had gathered at the Sena’s event in Pune recently.
Later in the day, Thane police registered three separate FIRs in three different police stations in Kalyan-Dombivli against the organisers for alleged violation of Covid-19 norms.
Meanwhile, during the presentation on the Covid situation in the cabinet meeting, Thackeray said that at least ruling parties should follow all Covid protocols while organising any event and should avoid political events.
“People are organising social, political, religious and other events without following Covid protocols. Considering the festive season ahead, everyone should take care and not violate Covid norms. If you cannot become a Covid warrior, at least do not be a Covid spreader,” said a statement from CM Thackeray’s office.
