Maha: BJP MLC alleges pro-Hamas slogans raised at rally; Fadnavis assures action

Bharatiya Janata Party BJP Member of Legislative Council MLC Prasad Lad Tuesday claimed that proHamas slogans were raised and a flag of the terror group was waved at a rally in Jalgaon district held in NovemberMaharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis who heads the state Home Department has assured that appropriate action will be taken and the information provided by MLC Lad will be thoroughly examinedThe rally organized by the Muslim community in Dharangaon village received permission from local authorities and the police on November 8 2023 According to MLC Lad ldquoantisocial elementsrdquo within the gathering expressed support for the terrorist organization Hamas by raising slogans and displaying their flagsDeputy Chief Minister Fadnavis clarified Indias stance on the Gaza conflict emphasizing that while the nation stands with Palestine it does not support Hamas which is officially designated as a terrorist organization He affirmed that supporting Hamas is unacceptable to India and in light of MLC Lads claims a thorough examination will be conducted followed by appropriate actionAlso read Maharashtra government forms panel to probe Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporations financial transactions in last 25 yearsIn a separate development Deputy Chief Minister Fadnavis expressed apprehension about the surge in drugrelated activities on InstagramDuring the state legislative council session he highlighted the platforms transformation into a marketplace for illicit substances Fadnavis noted that decisive measures are being implemented to address the issue including coordination with courier companies to scrutinize parcels and surprise checks at courier officesAlso read Global pressure mounts for ceasefire as Israel US face growing isolation over Gaza offensiveThe government has also taken action against 172 Nigerians involved in drugrelated offenses and steps have been initiated to curb the trade of ecigarettes and address concerns related to hookah parlorsIn response to legislators inquiries Fadnavis addressed the case of Lalit Patil a key figure in a recently busted drug racket He assured a thorough inquiry into the matter and emphasized the governments commitment to taking appropriate action Additionally he acknowledged concerns about illegal drug units operating in closed industries and affirmed that these cases were under thorough scrutiny With inputs from newswire PTI