‘I am an Allahabadi Goonda’: Justice Katju tells Raj Thackeray

MUMBAI:  Stepping into the controversy over Pakistani artistes performing in India, retired Supreme Court judge Justice Markandey Katju has targeted the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena, which is threatening to block the release of Karan Johar's upcoming film "Ae Dil Hai Mushkil".

MNS people are goondas who have drunk the salt water of the Arabian Sea. I am an Allahabadi goonda, who has drunk the water of the Sangam. “So instead of showing your bravery on those helpless artists, come have a dangal with me, and let the world see who is a bigger goonda.

Justice Markandey Katju, who also headed the Press Council of India, is known for his forthright views on many issues. Last year, he made a series of controversial statements on cow slaughter and beef consumption as possession and sale of beef were made illegal.

In a recent Facebook post, Markandey Katju also wrote that he had a "danda" (stick) with which he wished to hit those who made a fuss over the issue of cow slaughter and beef.

This time, his voice adds to the growing chorus by a section in the film fraternity opposed to the calls to block the film that stars Pakistani actor Fawad Khan and is slated to be released during Diwali.

Today, former Indian cricketer and commentator Sanjay Manjrekar also hit out at the MNS for issuing threats to vandalise cinemas and multiplexes that will screen the film.

"One MLA party, MNS, not learning their lessons. With threats of vandalism, etc. they are certain to be a zero-MLA party next elections," Mr Manjrekar tweeted, entering the field of MNS-bashers.

The MNS reacted by questioning Mr Manjrekar's credentials to speak on the issue. "At least we have one MLA... On what basis is he talking like this," MNS vice-president Vageesh Saraswat ques-tioned.

As tension escalated between India and Pakistan following the terror attack in Uri and the subsequent alleged surgical strikes by the Indian Army, a group of nearly 450 cinema owners of four states decided not to screen films with Pakistani artistes. On Tuesday, Karan Johar made an emotional video statement, pledging to stop working with Pakistani artistes and pleading the cause of his film.