A controversy has erupted in Delhi after a video surfaced showing a BJP councillor, Renu Chaudhary, confronting an African national in a public park and demanding that he learn Hindi within a month or leave the city. The incident, which took place in Patparganj, Delhi, has sparked outrage online, with critics accusing Chaudhary of intimidation and xenophobia.
The video, widely circulated on social media, shows Chaudhary speaking loudly in Hindi to a group of people, including the African national, who is reportedly a football coach. She questions why he has not learned Hindi despite living in India for an extended period. Chaudhary is heard saying that if he does not learn Hindi within a month, the park should be taken away from him. She also accuses the group of not taking her seriously and insists the issue is not something to laugh about. At one point, she says those earning money in India should also learn to speak Hindi. Additionally, Chaudhary issued a warning about park rules, stating that the park should be closed by 8 pm and that the group would be held responsible for any criminal activity.
The video has drawn sharp reactions on social media, with many users condemning the councillor's conduct. Several commenters described the behavior as bullying and unbecoming of an elected representative, while others said the incident reflected growing intolerance over language and identity. Some users accused Chaudhary of seeking power through public drama and undermining constitutional values and respect for diversity.
Amid the backlash, Chaudhary issued a clarification, defending her actions. She stated that the African national has been living in the area for nearly 15 years and works as a private football coach. According to her, around 20 African nationals were present at the ground on the day the video was recorded. Chaudhary claimed that most Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) staff do not understand English, and that despite living in the locality for years, the foreign coaches do not understand even basic Hindi, leading to serious communication gaps and misunderstandings.
The incident has ignited a widespread debate on language, identity, and intolerance in public spaces. Critics argue that demanding proficiency in Hindi from foreign nationals, especially as a condition for residing or working in the country, is discriminatory and goes against the principles of inclusivity. Others maintain that while it is beneficial for foreigners to learn the local language for better integration, it should not be强制 imposed or used as a basis for exclusion.
The controversy comes at a time when discussions around national identity, cultural integration, and linguistic diversity are increasingly prominent in India. The BJP, of which Chaudhary is a member, promotes Hindu nationalism. The incident raises questions about the role of elected officials in promoting inclusivity and respecting diversity in their constituencies.
