Sheriff8217;s post doesn8217;t serve any purpose, says Thackeray

Bakshi has denied passing any derogatory remarks against any one community or sect, saying his remarks, made at a seminar on women8217;s issues, were blown out of proportion for political reasons.

Thackeray also felt that it was upto the Bharatiya Janata Party BJP to decide if it wanted to dismiss Bakshi forhis alleged remarks. 8220;Since Bakshi is the BJP8217;s choice, it is for the party to take a decision,8221; he remarked.

Thackeray said when the issue of appointment of a new sheriff was making the rounds, the BJP had staked its claim for the post. 8220;Their contention was that since Sena nominees had made it to the post for the last three years, an opportunity should now be given to the BJP. We agreed and accordingly, Bakshi was sworn in,8221; Thackeray said.

A group of Sena workers led by Gujarat vibhag pramukh Mukesh Gandhi has demanded the immediate dismissal of Bakshi, added Thackeray. 8220;They have condemned Bakshi8217;s remarks. I have asked Gandhi to submit to him the exact statement made by Bakshi.8221;