In a recent interview with NDTV, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis asserted the safety and security of non-Marathi speakers in Mumbai. Fadnavis addressed concerns about linguistic tensions and assured that all residents, regardless of their linguistic background, are "100% safe" in the city. He stated that some individuals target people from underprivileged sections for publicity.
Fadnavis's comments come in the lead-up to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections. During the NDTV Power Play summit, Fadnavis addressed the issue of linguistic tensions in Mumbai. He stated definitively, "Every non-Marathi living in Mumbai is safe and secured". He attributed instances of violence to those seeking "cheap publicity and politics" by targeting vulnerable individuals.
The Chief Minister has consistently emphasized Mumbai's safety and inclusivity in the past. In January 2025, following an attack on actor Saif Ali Khan, Fadnavis stated that Mumbai is the safest among all mega cities in the country, asserting that isolated incidents should not tarnish the city's reputation. He has also highlighted that Mumbai is safe for women, even late at night, due to the efficient police system.
Fadnavis has also outlined his government's commitment to transforming Mumbai into a modern and inclusive city. This vision includes infrastructure development, slum rehabilitation, and ensuring that all residents benefit from the city's growth. The Dharavi redevelopment project, aimed at providing better housing and workspaces for local industries, exemplifies this commitment to inclusive development.
The Maharashtra government has taken several steps to ensure the safety and security of its citizens. These include heightened security measures, increased vigilance by the police, Coast Guard, and Navy, and the implementation of standard operating procedures. Fadnavis has also directed cyber cells to monitor social media for misinformation and has emphasized the importance of public awareness campaigns on safety protocols.
However, tensions related to language have surfaced in the past. In 2025, there were reports of MNS workers assaulting and threatening non-Marathi speakers. Fadnavis has condemned such violence, asserting that while pride in Marathi is important, "hooliganism and violence in the name of language will not be tolerated". He has also warned of strict action against those who take the law into their own hands.
Fadnavis has also addressed the issue of linguistic chauvinism, questioning why some individuals embrace English while opposing Hindi. He has encouraged the constructive promotion of Marathi, such as speaking the language, encouraging others to learn it, and supporting Marathi-medium schools.
Despite these efforts, concerns about the treatment of non-Marathi speakers persist. Some incidents, often amplified on social media, have created the perception of aggression and harassment. However, many residents maintain that Mumbai is a peaceful city where Hindi and English are widely understood.
Looking ahead to the BMC elections, Fadnavis has expressed confidence in his party's victory and has reiterated his commitment to inclusive governance. He has also emphasized the importance of fulfilling the aspirations of all communities in Maharashtra. He also stated that the next Mayor of Mumbai would be "Hindu and a Marathi only". The Shiv Sena-BJP alliance has unveiled a manifesto for the BMC elections focusing on housing, transport, and the environment, with an emphasis on inclusive development and sustainability.
