Is the Maha Language Row Impacting Varanasi? BHU Students Protest Against Targeting of Hindi-Speaking Individuals
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Synopsis
In a notable protest, BHU students in Varanasi have united against the rising violence towards Hindi-speaking migrants in Maharashtra, calling for solidarity and respect for the national language. This movement has gained attention amidst ongoing tensions in the region.
Key Takeaways
- BHU students protested against violence towards Hindi speakers.
- Demands included recognition of Hindi as a national language.
- Protests targeted the actions of MNS and SS (UBT) leaders.
- Students expressed discontent over the ongoing hate and violence.
- Calls for respect and understanding among linguistic communities.
Varanasi, July 9 (NationPress) The ongoing 'Marathi vs Hindi' debate in Maharashtra and the violence faced by Hindi-speaking residents, fueled by the 'unification' of the Thackeray cousins, reverberated in Uttar Pradesh on Wednesday. Students from Banaras Hindi University (BHU) took to the streets to protest against the recent surge of violence aimed at North Indian migrants in the region.
A collective of BHU students assembled outside the University, raising their voices against the mindless aggression directed at Hindi-speaking migrants. They displayed banners and posters to make their stance clear.
Protesters voiced their disapproval of the actions of SS (UBT) and MNS leaders, Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray, along with their followers, demanding an urgent stop to the chaos affecting the lives of migrants from the North.
The students raised slogans targeting the Thackeray brothers while holding signs that read ‘Matribhasha ka apmaan nahin sahega hindustan’ (India will not tolerate an insult to the mother tongue) and ‘Hindi virodhi is deshdrohi’ (Those against Hindi are traitors), capturing the attention of passersby.
Significantly, Maharashtra has been under scrutiny due to several incidents of targeted attacks where MNS perpetrators engaged in violent acts against Hindi-speaking migrants, brutally assaulting them in public.
Vipul Singh, a BHU student, expressed his disappointment to IANS, stating that the ongoing hatred and violence against the Hindi-speaking populace in Maharashtra is both disheartening and revolting.
“Our demand is for Hindi to be recognized as the national language, and no one should dare to challenge its widespread acceptance,” he emphasized.
He further warned against the possibility of retaliation, stating, “If individuals from the Hindi heartland are assaulted by the thugs of a particular party, it could lead to a significant pushback from Hindi-speaking regions.”
Another BHU student, Vivek Singh, articulated that their demonstration is a stand against the shameless actions of Raj Thackeray's MNS, Uddhav Thackeray's SS (UBT), and their cohorts.
He added that Hindi represents our civilizational heritage, and any attempts to undermine it will face strong opposition.
The protesting students criticized the ‘double standards’ exhibited by the Thackeray brothers and vowed to persist in their protests until these self-proclaimed protectors of the Marathi language are held accountable.
Point of View
It is essential to acknowledge the sentiments of the protesting students at BHU while promoting a unified approach towards linguistic diversity. The ongoing conflict highlights the need for dialogue and understanding among different cultural groups in India, ensuring that no language or community feels marginalized.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What sparked the protests by BHU students?
The protests were sparked by a series of violent incidents targeting Hindi-speaking migrants in Maharashtra, particularly linked to the ongoing 'Marathi vs Hindi' debate.
What demands did the students make?
The students demanded recognition of Hindi as the national language and an end to the violence against Hindi-speaking individuals in Maharashtra.
Who are the key figures involved in the violence?
The violence has primarily involved members of the MNS and SS (UBT) led by Raj and Uddhav Thackeray.
How did the protests manifest?
Students gathered outside BHU, displaying banners, chanting slogans, and calling for respect towards the Hindi language.
What is the larger significance of this protest?
The protest highlights the ongoing tensions in India regarding language and identity, emphasizing the need for unity and mutual respect among different linguistic groups.
