Mumbai: Jain Community Delegation Meets Raj Thackeray, Submits Written Apology

A delegation from the Jain community met Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray at his Shivtirth residence on Friday and submitted a written apology over the recent controversy involving the placement of a Jain religious flag on the replica of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's 'jire top' (turban) in Malad.

The incident had sparked outrage among Shivaji Maharaj's followers and Marathi organisations, triggering widespread criticism. During the meeting, representatives of the Jain community expressed sincere regret over the incident, stating that there was never any intention to hurt the sentiments of any community or disrespect the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. They also assured Raj Thackeray that such an incident would not be repeated and pledged to maintain communal harmony.

Addressing the delegation, Raj Thackeray urged them to respect Marathi identity and cultural sentiments. Referring to the ongoing controversy over white stripes painted across Marathi signboards in parts of Mumbai, he said unnecessary disputes between the Jain and Marathi communities should come to an end and stressed that Marathi pride must be respected.

The meeting is being seen as an effort to defuse tensions following the Malad controversy, with both sides expressing hope that the issue has now been resolved peacefully.