Is Raj Thackeray Planning a Morcha Against Hindi Imposition?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Raj Thackeray leads a morcha on July 6.
- The protest is against the imposition of Hindi in schools.
- Thackeray emphasizes unity among Marathi speakers.
- Concerns about the future of the Marathi language are central to the protest.
- Government's funding for Hindi teachers is questioned.
Mumbai, June 26 (NationPress) The chief of Maharashtra Navnirman Sena, Raj Thackeray, declared on Thursday his intention to lead a morcha from Girgaum to Azad Maidan in Mumbai on July 6. This event is a response to the perceived imposition of Hindi as a third language in Marathi and English schools. Thackeray voiced concerns that this initiative is part of a larger conspiracy aimed at undermining the Marathi language, which has recently been honored with Classical Status. He emphasized that his party will fiercely resist any attempts to impose Hindi within the state.
During his statements to the press following a meeting with School Education Minister Dadaji Bhuse, Thackeray asserted, "There should be no enforced language requirements, whether it's Hindi or any other. I urge all parties to join us for the morcha on July 6, which will strictly represent the Marathi community—no flags allowed. I chose Sunday to ensure maximum participation."
He called upon literary figures, Marathi enthusiasts, film personalities, and all political factions to take part in the march, stating, "We must unite for Maharashtra without disputes."
Discussing his conversation with Minister Bhuse, he pointed out the current shortage of Hindi teachers, while the government claims to be preparing to recruit 10,000. "Where is the funding for their salaries? The state faces numerous pressing issues—why is language the focus? Is there a diversion from more significant problems?" he questioned.
Thackeray continued, "Will fluency in Hindi guarantee you opportunities in films? Maharashtra's strength lies in its education system. Why then advocate for Hindi as a means to elevate Maharashtra's status?" He expressed openness to government initiatives promoting arts and sports to enhance student achievements instead of focusing on language imposition.
He reaffirmed his party's rejection of the government's stance on Hindi, declaring, "We will continue to oppose the imposition of Hindi."