Mumbai: An anxious mother’s outburst over Tuesday’s roadblock caused by BJP rallyists in Worli struck a chord with thousands of ordinary motorists and pedestrians. On Wednesday, minister Girish Mahajan’s statement saying a certain inconvenience was bound to occur during political rallies further added fuel to fire. Viren Shah, founder member and convenor of the Worli Residents Association, said, “The brave young Worlikar lady voiced what thousands of silent Mumbaikars feel every day ‘Please protest responsibly, but do not hold the city hostage.‘ Mumbai runs because ordinary citizens respect time, discipline and movement. Political parties, especially those in power, must lead by example and not create hardship for the very people they represent. Law makers should not become law breakers.” Visuals of the unnamed woman confronting Mahajan and BJP corporators took social media by storm. One Baghzaad Bhomisha said, “Normally they would take 1 lane of the road and not the entire road. I wish I was there to help her out. Shame on other motorists who sat inside their cars watching instead of supporting her..” A handle under the name of ‘Fast Responder’ said, “…Time someone highlighted the ‘servants’ part in public servants. Give her a padmashree!” Another belonging to The Thinking Ninja said, “She is just doing what everyone in India should be doing — asking questions and calling out what’s wrong. It’s a shame nobody is backing her up. And the poor police? Stuck with having to butter up politicians and support ridiculous rallies.” On Wednesday, Mahajan’s criticism of the lady’s language caused more ripples. One Manpreet Singh said, “She wasnt doing tamasha on the roads like you were. You have Parliament. The entire govt is yours. Go do it there. Why come on the roads?” —Bella Jaisinghani
