Shrirang Barne said the races are about the self-respect and sentiments of farmers. Shrirang Barne said the races are about the self-respect and sentiments of farmers.

Shiv Sena MP Shrirang Barne has threatened to launch a “Tamil Nadu-type agitation” if the ban on bullock cart races is not lifted. Barne was addressing a large crowd of bullock owners who took part in a morcha at the tehsil office in Wadgaon Maval on Wednesday.

Barne said bullock cart races are not just a traditional sport but are about the self-respect and sentiments of farmers. ‘’Therefore, if the government does not take a positive decision to restart these races, the Shiv Sena will be forced to a start a Tamil Nadu-type agitation in Maharashtra,’’ he said.

The morcha was organised by the Maval Taluka Bailgada Sanghatna. Farmers carried banners to protest against organisations like PETA and Pranimitra. Stating that police should not harass bullock cart owners because of the ban, Barne warned that if the government failed to consider the sentiments of farmers, it will have to face massive a jan andolan.

BJP MLA Bala Bhegde said a meeting has been convened with the Revenue Minister and the Agriculture Minister to discuss the issue. ‘’Besides, a delegation will meet the Chief Minister and urge him to appoint an expert lawyer on behalf of the state government to fight the case for lifting of the ban,’’ he said

📣 The Indian Express is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@indianexpress) and stay updated with the latest headlines

For all the latest Pune News, download Indian Express App.