The Free Press Journal

Should we close health centres & open temples?

At present the temples of health (hospitals and health centres) are crucial. The govt will reopen temples but in stages, says CM

- SANJAY JOG sanjay.jog@fpj.co.in

Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Tuesday took a dig at the opposition BJP and MNS saying whether he should open health centres or temples amid the possibilit­y of a third wave of Covid19. "Even though the temples are closed today, the health centres are still open. For this, the people will certainly give their blessings. Health centres are essential during the present pandemic. Do I open temples closing down the health centres?" he asked.

Thackeray was speaking in the presence of Union Minister of State Kapil Patil at the virtual inaugurati­on of a bridge and launching of various developmen­t works in the jurisdicti­on of Kalyan Dombivli Municipal Corporatio­n. Thackeray took a swipe at BJP

and MNS who have staged protests and reiteratin­g their demand for reopening of the temples.

"At present the temples of health (hospitals and health centres) are crucial. The government will reopen temples but in stages,’’ said CM. He again took a dig at BJP for shouting Bharat Mata Ki Jai and Vande Mataram but said the Shiv Sena had gone a step ahead to protect Hindutva especially during the communal riots of 1992 and 1993.

On the other hand, Thackeray announced that the state government, henceforth, will take stern action against illegal hawkers and it will not tolerate attacks by them on government and civic body employees. His announceme­nt came days after the Thane Municipal Corporatio­n assistant commission­er was attacked by a hawker while carrying out action.

"We will have to strictly enforce the law in the future. There will be no mercy, no forgivenes­s. The safety of citizens, mothers, sisters and employees will be ensured," said Thackeray. He asked the administra­tion to take action against illegal hawkers on skywalk or any other places.

“We will have to strictly enforce the law in the future. There will be no mercy, no forgivenes­s. The safety of citizens, mothers, sisters and employees will be ensured.

 ??  ??
 ??  ?? BJP recently staged protests demanding reopening of the temples
BJP recently staged protests demanding reopening of the temples

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from India