Why Did Ramdas Athawale Criticize Raj Thackeray Over Hindi Language Issues?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a bold confrontation, Union Minister Ramdas Athawale calls out Raj Thackeray for the violent behavior of MNS members towards Hindi speakers in Mumbai. He urges the end of hooliganism and emphasizes the importance of Hindi as a unifying language in India. Athawale's firm stance highlights the need for harmony and safety among all communities.
Key Takeaways
- Ramdas Athawale criticizes Raj Thackeray for violence against Hindi speakers.
- Calls for an end to hooliganism in Mumbai.
- Emphasizes Hindi's status as the most spoken language in India.
- Questions the unity of Raj and Uddhav Thackeray.
- Urges strict actions against violence by MNS workers.
New Delhi, July 6 (NationPress) Union Minister and leader of the Republican Party of India (RPI), Ramdas Athawale, sharply criticized Raj Thackeray, the chief of Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), and his party members for their aggressive stance regarding the Hindi language and the recent violent episodes aimed at Hindi-speaking individuals in Mumbai.
Athawale demanded an urgent cessation of "gundagardi" (hooliganism) and cautioned that such behaviors could tarnish Mumbai's reputation as a cosmopolitan city.
In light of the ongoing debate surrounding the state government's now-reversed decision to enforce Marathi in educational establishments, Athawale told IANS that Hindi is the most widely spoken language in India and deserves recognition as the Rajbhasha (official language).
“It is inappropriate to oppose Hindi. It is the language of the majority and poses no threat to Marathi,” he asserted.
Commenting on the reunion of Raj and Uddhav Thackeray, Athawale expressed skepticism, stating, “They might have united over the Marathi issue, but their alliance's longevity is uncertain.”
He urged the Shiv Sena (UBT) leader, Uddhav Thackeray, to reflect on Bal Thackeray's vision of inclusivity, which aimed to create segments for various communities across India, while condemning MNS for “attacking Hindus instead.”
Addressing the incidents involving MNS members assaulting Hindi speakers and sharing videos online, Athawale warned, “If they strike others, they must remember that retaliation could come their way.” He urged Maharashtra's Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis to implement strict measures against such vigilante violence.
Athawale dismissed Raj Thackeray's previous comments suggesting that Hindi-speaking regions are weaker than Maharashtra, asserting, “Mumbai is the economic backbone of India, a pride shared by both Marathis and non-Marathis.” He noted, “Even during colonial times, Mumbai held a unique status. While Marathas have significantly contributed, non-Marathi individuals, including numerous businessmen, have been essential in developing Mumbai.”
He emphasized that the Maharashtra government should guarantee the safety of all residents and that politics should not be exploited to create divisions based on language.
Point of View
I maintain a commitment to reporting on issues that resonate with our national identity. Athawale's remarks underscore the need for inclusivity and security in Maharashtra, reminding us that language should unite rather than divide. Our focus remains on fostering dialogue that bridges divides across communities.
NationPress
21/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Ramdas Athawale's main criticism of Raj Thackeray?
Ramdas Athawale criticized Raj Thackeray for his party's violent stance towards Hindi-speaking individuals in Mumbai, labeling it as hooliganism and urging an end to such actions.
What did Athawale say about the Hindi language?
Athawale emphasized that Hindi is the most widely spoken language in India and should be respected as the official language, asserting that opposing it is inappropriate.
How did Athawale react to the reunion of Raj and Uddhav Thackeray?
Athawale expressed skepticism regarding the unity of Raj and Uddhav Thackeray, questioning the longevity of their alliance over the Marathi issue.
What action did Athawale urge regarding violence against Hindi speakers?
He called on Maharashtra's Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis to take stringent action against the vigilante-style violence perpetrated by MNS workers.
What is Athawale's stance on the safety of all citizens in Maharashtra?
Athawale stated that the Maharashtra government must ensure the safety of all residents and that politics should not divide people based on language.
