Questioning the deadline of October 31 for setting up of the box in households, Shiv Sena executive president Uddhav Thackeray said there were economic considerations for the government behind the move.
"Because of the price rise inflicted on the poor people by the Congress, they are already in trouble. Television is the only source of entertainment, through which they can get to forget their problems. Congress is planning to stop this as well. Shiv Sena will not tolerate such things," Uddhav said in a statement.
"A set top box costs more than Rs 1,200. From where should poor people bring so much money?" he asked.
He said there are 30 to 35 per cent households, where set top boxes are yet to be installed. "The time should be extended till January 2013. Shiv Sena is staunchly supporting the wishes of the common man. If the public takes to streets to protest against the government high-handedness, the sena will support them," Uddhav warned.
Television screens in Mumbai will go blank from November 1, if the set top boxes are not installed.
