Pune, September 1: A controversy erupted at the Government Polytechnic College in Pune when Amit Thackeray, a leader of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), ordered the removal of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s photograph during his visit. Principal Rajendra Patil reported that Thackeray, accompanied by 20 to 25 supporters, noticed the photographs of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and PM Modi in his office. Upon seeing the PM’s picture, Thackeray insisted that it should not be displayed and instructed a worker to take it down.
The incident occurred between 12:30 PM and 1 PM. Following the removal of the photograph, Thackeray raised concerns about the college and hostel facilities, specifically criticizing the cleanliness of the toilets and bathrooms. He also objected to the quality of onions used in the canteen, showcasing a crate of substandard onions and asserting that such produce should not be utilized.
During this inspection, the dispute over the photograph arose, leading to its removal. Principal Patil attempted to explain to Thackeray that a government directive mandates the display of the Prime Minister’s photo in educational institutions, and thus, it could not be removed. He confirmed that he has filed a complaint regarding the incident, stating that the photo was forcibly taken down from his office.
Patil further mentioned that Thackeray expressed intentions to send his workers back to the college to assess improvements in the facilities. He noted that they would return in about eight days to evaluate the situation, and if no progress is made, they would visit again.
Leave a Comment