Shani temple row: No place for discrimination but don't disturb law and order for publicity, says Maha CM

Mumbai: In a veiled attack on the Bhumata Brigade activists who have been fighting against gender inequality in India's Hindu temples, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said that no one must disturb the law and order situation in order to gain publicity.

He however at the same time added that there was no place for discrimination in Hindu culture.

"There is no place for discrimination in Hindu culture. Our government has taken a clear stand before the Honorable High Court and we will implement their decision in true spirit," Fadnavis was quoted as saying.

"But it is my sincere request to everyone not to disturb the law and order situation for mere publicity," Fadnavis added.

Trupti Desai, who leads the Bhumata Ranragini Brigade, was on Saturday detained by Maharashtra police with several other activists as they attempted to enter the premises of Shani Shingnapur temple.

Hitting out at CM Fadnavis for saying that the purpose of their movement was to gain attention, Desai said, "Yes the Chief Minister did express his support for us, but that support has clarly fallen short somewhere. You can see our condition since morning. He should have ensured that the police establish the cout order. he should let go off the Home Ministry, if he is not able to perform his functions."

Meanwhile, Desai said that she along with several other activists who were assaulted during their Saturday's march to Shani Shingnapur temple, will identify their attackers.

Meanwhile, the Maharashtra police claimed that they detained th Bhumata Brigade activists in order to prevent stampede outside the Shani Shingapur temple and also so that law and order does not go out of control.