Amidst rising tensions over the use of Marathi language in Maharashtra, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has strongly condemned the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) for acts of violence and intimidation against those not fluent in the language. His stern warning comes in the wake of the detention of MNS workers and ahead of a planned rally by the party, adding fuel to the already heated political atmosphere.

Fadnavis has made it clear that while the government is proud of the Marathi language and its promotion, violence and "hooliganism" in its name will not be tolerated. He specifically criticized the MNS for threatening and assaulting traders who do not speak Marathi, questioning the logic and justification behind such attacks. "What is the trader's fault if he doesn't know the language? Should he not be allowed to run his business because of that?" Fadnavis asked, emphasizing that such behavior reflects poorly on the state's ethos.

The Deputy CM also highlighted the hypocrisy of such actions, pointing out that many Marathi-speaking people conduct business in other states without knowing the local language and are not subjected to similar treatment. He asserted that such "goon-shahi" has no place in India and that strict action would be taken against anyone who takes the law into their own hands.

Fadnavis's remarks followed an incident where MNS activists allegedly assaulted a food stall owner in Thane for not speaking Marathi. The activists, reportedly wearing MNS scarves, demanded to know why the owner, Babulal Khimaji Chaudhary, didn't speak Marathi and allegedly assaulted him when he questioned the existence of any government rule mandating it. The incident sparked widespread condemnation. Fadnavis confirmed that an FIR had been registered and action taken by the police in connection with the assault. He vowed that legal action would be taken against anyone creating such language disputes in the future, emphasizing that while the government is proud of Marathi, injustice cannot be done to any language of India.

Furthermore, Fadnavis took a dig at MNS leaders, suggesting that some individuals who participate in cabinet decisions and hold "victory rallies" are now attempting to exploit the language issue for political gain. He implied that the Marathi people are discerning and can see through any duplicity, and that decisions will not be made at the cost of the future of Marathi children.

Tensions are particularly high as the MNS moves forward with a planned rally in Thane, despite police concerns regarding the route. The police had reportedly denied permission for MNS workers to protest against traders due to these concerns. In response to the tensions and the planned rally, security has been increased in Mira Bhayander.