Maharashtra Governor SC Jamir has said maintaining law and order is the responsibility of the state government and outsiders have no reason to interfere in the internal matters of the state and have no right to defame Maharashtra.
Jamir's statement came during an interaction with a delegation led by Chief Minister Vilasrao Deshmukh, which met him to express their views on the violence against north Indians.
"Maharashtra is the cradle of Indian nationalism and is one of the most progressive states in the country," a Raj Bhawan spokesperson quoted Jamir as telling the delegation at Raj Bhawan on November 12.
Jamir's statement assumes significance in the backdrop of campaign by north Indian leaders following MNS-led violence against north Indians which included killing of a Bihari youth in a Mumbai bus and lynching of a UP worker in a train.
Governor's comment came after Deshmukh told him that Maharashtra is known for its great tradition of tolerance, progressive reforms and cosmopolitan culture.
It is unfortunate that efforts have been made in the last few weeks by leaders of some states to create a wrong impression regarding Maharashtra, the Chief Minister told the Governor.
{{/usCountry}}It is unfortunate that efforts have been made in the last few weeks by leaders of some states to create a wrong impression regarding Maharashtra, the Chief Minister told the Governor.
{{/usCountry}}Jamir assured the delegation that he would convey their sentiments to the President and the Prime Minister.
The delegation included Deputy Chief Minister R R Patil, state Congress chief Manikrao Thakre, Irrigation Minister Ajit Pawar, PWP leader Ganpatrao Deshmukh, JD (S) leader Mrinal Gore, city Congress chief Kripashankar Singh, city NCP chief Sachin Ahir and RPI (Gavai) leader Sandeep Gavai. The Shiv Sena and BJP did not join the delegation.