Thane: The aggressive behaviour of Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) workers continues to stir controversy, with a fresh incident reported from Kalyan, near Mumbai. In a disturbing act caught on camera, MNS workers barged into a coaching centre and physically assaulted its director, Siddharth Singh Chandel, sparking outrage on social media.
Video Shows MNS Workers Slapping Chandel
In the video, Chandel is seen calmly speaking on the phone and trying to pacify the agitators. However, the situation quickly escalates. One man slaps Chandel across the face, another throws a stainless steel water bottle at him, and a third hurls an object, probably a prize trophy, hitting him directly. Meanwhile, visibly frightened female students seated in a corner captured the entire incident on their mobile phones.
Why Was Chandel Assaulted?
Chandel, who runs the Siddharth Logic Coaching Centre in Kalyan, offers training for competitive exams, including the Indian Administrative Services (IAS). MNS workers allegedly targeted him over complaints that he was charging high fees from students but did not conduct any classes himself. A 2.5-minute video of the incident has since gone viral, showing three MNS workers confronting Chandel in his office.
This violent episode has raised fresh questions about MNS’ methods of protest. Previously, the party had targeted non-Marathis over language and identity issues. Now, their aggression appears to be shifting focus, targeting individuals and businesses over unverified allegations.
No Action By MNS Chief After Assault Incidents
The party leadership, including MNS chief Raj Thackeray, has remained silent on the incident. There has been no apology or condemnation from the party regarding this latest act of violence. In fact, Raj Thackeray had earlier advised his workers not to film such attacks on non-Marathis, further raising concerns about the party’s stance on vigilantism.
This is not the first such instance involving MNS. In recent weeks, the party’s workers were involved in assaults on shopkeepers and migrant auto-rickshaw drivers in Mira Road and Vikhroli. Despite repeated episodes of violence, there has been no official censure or corrective action from the party's top brass.
