Maharashtra Minister Ashish Shelar has sparked controversy by comparing the recent actions of Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) workers, involving assaults on individuals for not speaking Marathi, to the terrorist attack in Pahalgam. Shelar's remarks have ignited a debate about the nature of these incidents and the state's responsibility to protect all its residents.
Shelar stated that in the Pahalgam terror attack, people were targeted based on their religion, while in Maharashtra, people are being attacked based on their language. He expressed his disappointment, emphasizing the pain, suffering, and mental distress caused by such incidents. He further added that these cases create a disturbance in society.
The remarks followed a viral video showing MNS workers assaulting a shopkeeper in Bhayandar for allegedly refusing to speak in Marathi. The police have detained and released seven individuals in connection with the incident after serving them notices.
Shelar, a leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), asserted that his party, the largest in the state, would protect both Marathi speakers and non-Marathi residents. He said that the BJP does not consider Marathi a political issue and is committed to the development of the state rather than politics of hatred.
Other political figures have also weighed in on the issue. Nitesh Rane, also from the BJP, objected to Hindus being targeted for not speaking Marathi. Pratap Sarnaik, a leader of the Shiv Sena, stated that the MNS does not have a monopoly over the Marathi language.
The controversy has drawn battle lines in the state's political landscape, particularly with upcoming local body elections. Pro-Marathi groups, especially the MNS led by Raj Thackeray, have faced accusations of assaulting and threatening non-Marathi speakers.
Shelar's comparison has been met with mixed reactions. Some view it as a condemnation of violence and discrimination, while others see it as an inappropriate comparison of two very different situations. The debate highlights the sensitivity surrounding linguistic and regional identities in Maharashtra and the challenges of maintaining social harmony in a diverse society.
The minister's statement underscores the need for the state government to take proactive measures to ensure the safety and security of all residents, regardless of their linguistic background. It also calls for a more nuanced understanding of the issues at play and a commitment to fostering inclusivity and mutual respect.
