Why Should Achievements of Marathi People Not Be Questioned? BJP and MahaYuti Government Responds to Nishikant Dubey

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- BJP and MahaYuti government defend Marathi identity.
- Nishikant Dubey's comments spark significant backlash.
- Ashish Shelar emphasizes the economic contributions of Marathi people.
- Political tensions reflect broader societal issues.
- Call for unity among diverse communities in Maharashtra.
Mumbai, July 7 (NationPress) - The BJP and the MahaYuti administration on Monday opted to distance themselves from the remarks made by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, who provocatively stated, "You people are surviving on our money. What kind of industries do you have?"
Mumbai BJP president and Maharashtra Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar emphasized in the Assembly that while the MP from Jharkhand should present his views lawfully, he must refrain from questioning the accomplishments and contributions of the Marathi community. Shelar asserted, "Marathi people do not depend on anyone's resources."
Although Shelar did not directly name Dubey, he pointed out that Dubey is not an Assembly member in Maharashtra.
Shelar further remarked, "Maharashtra stands as a testament to the capabilities of Marathi individuals worldwide. The contribution of Marathi people to the nation’s GDP is significant."
He continued, "It is the government's duty to safeguard the interests of Marathi citizens and ensure no injustice is inflicted upon them."
Shelar also mentioned, "If the MP from Jharkhand is unaware of the contributions of Marathi people to the national GDP, we will provide him with the necessary information."
This clarification from Shelar followed criticism from Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray, who condemned Dubey's comments, stating, "In Mumbai, non-Marathi speakers coexist with Marathi speakers in dignity. Such remarks from individuals like Dubey are damaging our community's atmosphere."
Earlier, Dubey stirred controversy with his fiery rebuttal to Uddhav and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena founder Raj Thackeray, asserting, "You people are surviving on our money. What industries do you have? If you have the guts to confront those who speak Hindi, then you should challenge speakers of Urdu, Tamil, and Telugu. If you consider yourselves powerful, venture out of Maharashtra and come to Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, or Tamil Nadu. We will teach you a lesson."
Dubey criticized the Thackeray brothers for targeting Hindi speakers in Mumbai.
In response to the ongoing controversy regarding the enforcement of the Marathi language, Dubey accused the Thackeray cousins of engaging in "cheap politics" ahead of the BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation elections, questioning their selective outrage.