India

Massive arrests in protest against regional firebrand

Article published on the 2008-10-26 Latest update 2008-10-26 14:07 TU

Thackeray in Mumbai this week
(Photo: Reuters)

At least 1,021 students have been arrested, according to police in the Indian state of Bihar, as they enforced a strike against the release on bail of Mumbai politician, Raj Thackeray. He is accused of inciting attacks on migrant workers from poor states. The students have vowed to continue their campaign until Thackeray returns to jail.

The Bihar students attacked railway stations, blocked roads and clashed with police during their protest Saturday. There were street protests in other states and cities, including the Uttar Pradesh capital Allahabad.

Thackeray, who is head of the small but active Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), was arrested on Monday but released two days later. Some 20 cases have been filed against him in connection with last Sunday's attacks on north Indians who had gone to Mumbai to seek work.

The MNS claims that people from Maharashtra state, of which Mumbai is the capital, are not getting enough jobs in the city, which is the country's financial centre.

Thackeray's arrest sparked more violence. His supporters clashed with police and attacked taxis, auto-rickshaws, buses and businesses. Three people died in rioting in the town of Kalyan, north-east of Mumbai.