In Thane, Maharashtra, tensions surrounding the language row have escalated, leading to the detention of several Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) workers ahead of a planned protest rally. The MNS, led by Raj Thackeray, had organized the rally to counter protests against an incident where MNS workers allegedly assaulted a food stall owner for not speaking Marathi.
The incident that sparked the controversy occurred on July 1st, when MNS activists were filmed slapping a food stall owner in Bhayander for speaking Hindi. The video, which went viral, showed individuals wearing MNS scarves confronting the stall owner and demanding that he speak in Marathi. Following the incident, seven MNS members were temporarily detained and later released after receiving police notices. Police have filed a case against them under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for rioting, threatening, and assault.
The incident triggered widespread condemnation and protests by local traders and residents who do not speak Marathi. These protestors demanded action against those who assaulted the food stall owner. In response to these protests, the MNS announced a counter-rally to defend their stance on the importance of the Marathi language.
In anticipation of the MNS rally, police detained MNS leader and Thane-Palghar district president Avinash Jadhav early Tuesday morning. Jadhav was taken into custody from his Thane residence around 3:30 AM. The MNS shared a video of Jadhav's detention on social media. Mira Bhayander-Vasai Virar Deputy Commissioner of Police Prakash Gaikwad had issued a prohibitory order on Monday, preventing Jadhav from entering the Mira Bhayander area, citing concerns that his presence would aggravate the situation and lead to law and order problems. Furthermore, police denied permission for the MNS to conduct the rally in the area.
The detention of MNS workers and the denial of permission for the rally highlight the sensitivity of the language issue in Maharashtra. The state has a long history of linguistic pride, and the MNS has often taken a strong stance on promoting the use of Marathi in all aspects of life. However, the recent incidents have raised concerns about the potential for violence and discrimination against non-Marathi speakers.
The incident also led to a public reunion of the Thackeray cousins at the Worli Dome, where MNS chief Raj Thackeray addressed his workers. While reiterating the party's demand that all residents must learn Marathi, he cautioned against violence, stating, "There is no need to beat anyone for not speaking Marathi".
The state government had previously withdrawn controversial government resolutions that mandated Hindi as the third compulsory language in Marathi and English-medium primary schools, following strong opposition and protests. The government has now formed an expert committee to review the language policy and suggest a way forward.
The events in Thane underscore the complexities and sensitivities surrounding language politics in Maharashtra. While the MNS continues to advocate for the primacy of Marathi, concerns remain about the potential for such advocacy to lead to acts of violence and discrimination. The police are taking measures to maintain law and order, and the state government is seeking to address the issue through policy review and dialogue.
