Thackeray's Court Drama: MNS Chief Faces 2008 Rioting Charges

MNS chief Raj Thackeray pleaded not guilty in a Thane court regarding a 2008 rioting case. Charges include rioting, assault on candidates, and attacking police. The case involves Thackeray and party workers targeting candidates from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh for the Railway Recruitment Board exam.

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray faced a legal challenge in Thane district court concerning a 2008 rioting case. On Thursday, Thackeray pleaded not guilty, according to his lawyer.

Charges have been framed against both Thackeray and multiple party workers for their alleged involvement in rioting, assaulting candidates, and attacking police on October 19, 2008. The court has scheduled the next hearing for December 16.

The 2008 incident saw MNS members targeting candidates from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh attending the Railway Recruitment Board exam. Previously, Thackeray had been granted bail, and in 2009, he surrendered following a Bombay High Court directive.

(With inputs from agencies.)