The Polit Bureau of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) has issued the following statement:
The Polit Bureau of the CPI(M) strongly condemns the role of the Maharashtra Chief Minister who instead of upholding the rule of the law to stop those threatening film makers has actually facilitated extortion of a reported sum of Rs. 5 crore invoking the armed forces. This is a gross insult to the courage, valour and the role being played by the armed forces in defence of India.
The Chief Minister is under oath to uphold the Constitution and the rule of law. By this action he has negated the constitutional mandate. This also creates an environment of fear to stifle freedom of expression.
The Chief Minister and the government of Maharashtra should employ the instruments of the State to uphold the rule of law. The failure to do so should be taken serious note of by the Central government in accordance with the constitutional provisions.