Should Hindi Be Imposed? AIMIM Leader Waris Pathan Speaks Out on Maharashtra Language Controversy
Click to start listening
Synopsis
As the language debate intensifies in Maharashtra, AIMIM leader Waris Pathan voices strong opinions against the imposition of Hindi. He urges political leaders to unite and focus on real issues like corruption and urban mismanagement. Discover more about his insights and the current political climate in Mumbai.
Key Takeaways
- Waris Pathan opposes the imposition of Hindi in Maharashtra.
- The Thackeray brothers should unite to tackle urban issues.
- Language should not be a divisive factor.
- Pathan criticizes the BJP for inciting language nationalism.
- Political tensions are escalating ahead of the BMC elections.
New Delhi, June 27 (NationPress) In light of the ongoing debate regarding the use of Hindi in Maharashtra, AIMIM leader and former MLA Waris Pathan has firmly stated that the North Indian language ought not to be imposed upon the populace.
Regarding the political speculation about a potential reconciliation between the Thackeray brothers, he suggested that their focus should be on addressing urban mismanagement and the escalating levels of corruption as the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections approach, which will occur after a seven-year hiatus.
During an interview with IANS in Maharashtra on Friday, Pathan expressed his support for the idea of the Thackeray siblings coming together, asserting, “What issue would I have if they unite? Years ago, they collaborated effectively. With the BMC elections on the horizon, they should consolidate and discuss pressing matters such as the rampant corruption in Mumbai, potholes, and urban dysfunction.”
He also commented on the recent language dispute ignited by the protests of Raj and Uddhav Thackeray against the increasing prominence of Hindi in the state.
Highlighting his own linguistic proficiency, he noted, “I communicate in Hindi, English, Marathi, and Gujarati,” stressing that language should never be a cause for division. “English serves as a global language. Marathi is our regional language, which I utilise daily as a practicing lawyer. Hindi is our national language, recognized throughout the country,” he added.
Pathan lambasted BJP leaders for purportedly inciting language nationalism. “They claim they will eradicate English, yet in a democracy, one cannot compel individuals to converse in only one language. If I visit Tamil Nadu and lack knowledge of Tamil, people won’t turn violent against me. Embrace every language, but do not mandate any.”
Directing his criticisms towards the BJP, Pathan accused the party of leveraging religion to divide voters. “Whenever elections approach, they initiate Hindu-Muslim discourse. They aim to secure 90 percent of the Muslim vote while remaining mute during instances of mob lynchings or the wrongful imprisonment of innocent Muslims. Individuals sporting beards and Muslim caps face discrimination. This is blatant hypocrisy,” he asserted.
Pathan’s comments emerge at a time when political tensions in Mumbai are escalating, with regional identity, language issues, and civic challenges taking precedence ahead of the significant BMC elections.
Point of View
Rather than divisive rhetoric.
NationPress
27/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Waris Pathan's stance on Hindi being imposed in Maharashtra?
Waris Pathan believes that Hindi should not be imposed and emphasizes that language should not create divisions among people.
What does Pathan suggest the Thackeray brothers should focus on?
He suggests that the Thackeray brothers should address urban mismanagement and corruption, especially with the upcoming BMC elections.
How does Pathan view the BJP's approach to language?
Pathan criticizes the BJP for allegedly promoting language chauvinism and believes that imposing a single language is undemocratic.
What are the broader political implications of Pathan's comments?
His remarks reflect rising political tensions in Mumbai, centered on regional identity and language politics as the BMC elections approach.
What languages does Waris Pathan speak?
Pathan claims proficiency in Hindi, English, Marathi, and Gujarati, advocating for multilingualism.
