CPI-M criticizes Maharashtra CM for facilitating ‘extortion’ of Rs 5 crore from Karan Johar

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IndiaTomorrow.net,New Delhi, Oct 23: The Communist Party of India (Marxist) on Sunday strongly criticized Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis for allegedly facilitating the “extortion” of Rs 5 crore invoking the armed forces. The CPI-M said it is an ‘insult’ to the armed forces.

According to The Indian Express, “Fadnavis mediated talks Saturday between MNS president Raj Thackeray and (Karan) Johar after the producers gave in to the MNS demand not to cast Pakistan artistes in future and to pay Rs 5 crore as ‘prayashchit’ (penance) to the Army welfare fund.” The CM had earlier promised tough action against any attempt to stall the release of Karan Johar’s film Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, starring Pakistani actor Fawad Khan. Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh had also reportedly promised safe release of the film.

“The Polit Bureau of the CPI(M) strongly condemns the role of the Maharashtra Chief Minister who instead of upholding the rule of the law to stop those threatening film makers has actually facilitated extortion of a reported sum of Rs 5 crore invoking the armed forces. This is a gross insult to the courage, valour and the role being played by the armed forces in defence of India,” said CPI-M in a media statement a short while ago.

“The Chief Minister is under oath to uphold the Constitution and the rule of law. By this action he has negated the constitutional mandate. This also creates an environment of fear to stifle freedom of expression,” said the party.

“The Chief Minister and the government of Maharashtra should employ the instruments of the state to uphold the rule of law. The failure to do so should be taken serious note of by the Central government in accordance with the constitutional provisions,” it demanded.

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