Whatever is happening in Maharashtra is very dangerous for the country. It’s not only a question of Bihar or Biharis. Things are drifting ahead and if they are not checked urgently, then it could be very detrimental for the country. That’s why I am urging the Union Government and the Prime Minister to intervene without any delay. For, it is the responsibility of the Union Government to protect the interests of the country.

Political leaders are shooting their mouths off in a very irresponsible manner and common citizens are bearing the brunt. This should stop immediately. The Prime Minister should take the lead and convene a meeting of leaders from Bihar and Maharashtra to find a solution. The “hate campaign” against Hindi-speaking people is spreading each day. It has now touched the icons (even some film stars have come out to support the intolerance). The direction this is taking or the one that’s being given to this issue is certainly not in the national interest.

It is sad that the Centre so far hasn’t taken the matter seriously. If the Centre does not intervene, it will send a wrong signal. Several questions will be raised. It may be construed that the Centre has given consent towards vitiating the atmosphere in Maharashtra. This is very dangerous.

So far as migration of people from Bihar and north India to Mumbai and other parts of Maharashtra is concerned, it should be clear that there is nothing illegal about it. India is one country. It is the Constitutional right of its every citizen to work and settle anywhere in this country.

... contd.