Despite the Brihan Mumbai Corporation (BMC) shooting off a directive to the Shiv Sena to dismantle the makeshift structure built at the Shivaji Park where party founder Bal Thackeray’s cremation took place, Sena leaders appear to be sticking to their guns by refusing to back down.
“The purpose for which the site was allotted [for Thackeray’s cremation] is over. Therefore, we have asked the Sena to remove the structure immediately or face legal consequences,” said BMC Commissioner Sitaram Kunte. He said he had already sent notices to Sena MP Sanjay Raut and BMC Mayor Sunil Prabhu.
Mr. Kunte said the permission to use the ground was given only for the cremation and that it should be restored to its original status as it was a reserved plot as per the city development plan.
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“The Shiv Sena will have nothing to do with the order,” Mr. Raut told television channels in New Delhi.