What Happened?
According to eyewitnesses, the MNS workers entered a general store in the Dadar area and confronted a young employee for speaking Hindi and English instead of Marathi. In the video, one of the workers is heard saying:
"Tu Marathi bol. Ithe Maharashtra aahe. (Speak Marathi. This is Maharashtra.)”
When the worker replied that he was not fluent, the men allegedly threatened him with consequences, stating that businesses in Mumbai must hire only those who speak Marathi.
🔥 MNS’s Stand on the Marathi Language
MNS, led by Raj Thackeray, has a long history of demanding priority to the Marathi language and culture in Maharashtra, particularly Mumbai. This isn’t the first time MNS workers have targeted non-Marathi speakers or establishments.
In 2022, MNS had launched a campaign to make Marathi signboards mandatory.
In 2023, a similar incident was reported in Thane involving a delivery worker.
🗣️ Political & Public Reaction
While MNS spokespersons have justified the action as part of a "Marathi pride" movement, political leaders across parties condemned the incident:
Shiv Sena (UBT): “We should promote Marathi, not impose it with fear.”
Congress: “This is not the Maharashtra of Shivaji Maharaj. Diversity is our strength.”
BJP: “No one should be bullied for language. Law must act.”
On social media, public opinion remains sharply divided. Many support the importance of preserving Marathi, while others criticize the intimidation tactics.
📜 Legal Implications
Legal experts say language cannot be enforced through threats:
Freedom of speech includes the right to use any official language.
Under Indian law, no individual can be forced to speak a particular language in private transactions.
Mumbai Police have said they are examining the footage and that FIR may be filed under sections related to criminal intimidation and attempt to incite communal tension.
🇮🇳 Mumbai: A City of Many Tongues
Mumbai, often called the melting pot of India, is home to Marathi, Hindi, Gujarati, Urdu, Tamil, and English speakers. Incidents like this raise concerns about growing intolerance and the politicization of identity.
✅ Conclusion
Promoting regional languages is important, but language should be a bridge, not a weapon. While Marathi deserves pride of place in Maharashtra, the spirit of inclusion and respect must remain intact.
FAQs
Q1: Can anyone be legally forced to speak Marathi in Maharashtra?
A: No. There is no law that mandates individuals to speak Marathi in private conversations or workplaces.
Q2: What action can be taken against such threats?
A: Police can file cases under IPC sections for intimidation and harassment. The person affected can also file a complaint with the State Human Rights Commission.
Q3: Is Marathi mandatory for shopkeepers in Maharashtra?
A: While signboards must include Marathi, there's no legal requirement that staff must speak it — though it may be preferred locally.
Q4: What has MNS said about the incident?
A: MNS has defended the action as a part of its ongoing mission to promote Marathi culture but has not officially condoned threats.
published on 2nd july
Publisher : SMITA
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