Two months after targetting north Indian migrants, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena has raked up son-of-the soil issue demanding 80 per cent job reservation for Marathi-speaking locals in private sector. The MNS threatened to launch agitation if this was not done, drawing strong protest from the industries.
"The Maharashtra Navnirman Kamgar Sena, the workers' union floated by MNS, is writing letters to 45,000 industries in Maharashtra to ensure 80 per cent reservation for local Marathi people," Manoj Chavan, Chief Cordinator of the party, told PTI.
The MNS also warned the industries that if this was not done then they would launch an agitation. The MNS move has drawn the protest of the industries which contended such a stand violated fundamental rights of Indians.
"We oppose any such move since it violates the fundamental rights of Indian citizens to stay anywhere in the country and practice the vocation they want," Sushil Kumar Jiwaraka, Ficci's Western Region chief, said.
"People
from all walks of life and from different regions of the country have contributed to Mumbai's success," he said.
"Therefore, they have an equal claim to jobs in Mumbai. Today's statement is a very divisive statement to make," he added.
The MNS leader said letters have already been sent to several industries demanding job reservation for Marathi people.
The MNS had in February targetted north Indians settled in Maharashtra.