Why Has Raj Thackeray Rescheduled the Morcha to July 5?
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Synopsis
In a pivotal move, Raj Thackeray has rescheduled the protest morcha to July 5, addressing the contentious issue of Hindi's imposition in Maharashtra’s schools. This decision sparks renewed support from Uddhav Thackeray, highlighting a united front against linguistic imposition. Join the movement that aims to protect Marathi identity!
Key Takeaways
- Raj Thackeray rescheduled the morcha to July 5 to oppose Hindi imposition.
- The change avoids conflict with the Ashadhi Ekadashi festival.
- Uddhav Thackeray supports a related morcha on July 7.
- The protest emphasizes the importance of Marathi identity.
- No flags will be used to represent the unity of the Marathi community.
Mumbai, June 26 (NationPress) The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena's Raj Thackeray has declared a shift in the morcha date to July 5, moving it from July 6, to protest against the enforcement of Hindi in Marathi and English schools for grades 1 to 5 across Maharashtra.
The date adjustment coincides with the auspicious Ashadhi Ekadashi, which falls on July 6, a day when devotees observe a fast and participate in large processions to Pandharpur to honor their deity, Vitthal.
This change is significant as it aligns with the support extended by Raj Thackeray’s estranged brother and Shiv Sena UBT leader, Uddhav Thackeray, who has also endorsed a morcha set for July 7 in Mumbai, organized by the The Tribhasha Sutra (Three Language Formula) Anti-Mumbai Coordination Committee.
Both factions have publicly asserted their opposition to Hindi imposition while planning separate morchas. Insiders suggest ongoing discussions aim to unify their efforts to prevent division among the Marathi-speaking populace against Hindi.
Raj Thackeray shared on X: “With warm regards, Jai Maharashtra. This morning, for our Marathi language, for Maharashtra, and for the Marathi people, a morcha was initially set for July 6. However, we have adjusted the schedule; the morcha will now occur on Saturday, July 5, starting at 10 AM from Girgaum to Azad Maidan. All other details remain the same. The media and the people of Maharashtra should note this change.”
Raj Thackeray emphasized, “We will resist the imposition of Hindi from the start, and we have decided to organize a morcha to express this stance. No flags will be present at this march; it will solely represent the Marathi community. The agenda will focus exclusively on Marathi issues, led by a Marathi individual. The government must grasp the sentiments of Maharashtra. We will gauge participation and consult with educationists and linguists. All students and parents are invited to join us. It’s time for the government to understand the heart of Maharashtra.”
He continued, “Every individual will be welcome at the anti-Hindi morcha. We will engage with all political factions in Maharashtra. The interests of Maharashtra transcend any disputes or conflicts, and that realization will dawn upon everyone.”
Previously, Uddhav Thackeray had announced that his party would not permit the imposition of Hindi as a third language in Marathi and English schools for grades 1 to 5, urging citizens to unite against the state government's initiatives.
“We have firmly opposed Hindi and its imposition in our state. In how many states is the three-language formula implemented? Why is the state government insistent on enforcing Hindi in Maharashtra? Why not adopt a one-language formula? The push for Hindi suggests a monopolistic agenda. BJP national president JP Nadda previously made commitments regarding this issue,” Thackeray reiterated, asserting his refusal to allow Hindi imposition in the state.
“We are not against the language itself; we oppose its imposition. There is a hidden agenda behind this initiative. I invite all Marathi citizens to join this battle,” he concluded at the press conference.
Point of View
It's evident that the ongoing debate over language imposition in Maharashtra highlights an essential cultural struggle. Both Raj and Uddhav Thackeray's efforts reflect the deep-seated sentiments of the Marathi people. Their united stand against the imposition of Hindi can be viewed as a defense of regional identity, emphasizing that the state's linguistic heritage must be preserved and respected. The implications of these protests may resonate beyond Maharashtra, impacting the broader national dialogue on language and identity.
NationPress
26/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the reason for the morcha on July 5?
The morcha is organized to protest against the imposition of Hindi in Marathi and English schools for grades 1 to 5 in Maharashtra.
Who else is supporting this protest?
Uddhav Thackeray, Raj Thackeray's estranged brother and leader of Shiv Sena UBT, is also supporting a related morcha on July 7.
What is the significance of the date change?
The date change to July 5 avoids conflict with Ashadhi Ekadashi, a significant religious observance for many Marathi people.
Will there be any flags at the morcha?
No flags will be present at the morcha; it is intended to solely represent the Marathi community and its issues.
What is the broader impact of this protest?
The protest aims to unite Marathi speakers against Hindi imposition and highlight the importance of preserving regional languages and identities.
