Is Shiv Sena-UBT Responding to BJP Amid Hindi-Speaker Controversy?
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Synopsis
The political tussle in Maharashtra intensifies as Shiv Sena-UBT's Anand Dubey counters BJP's Nishikant Dubey, addressing the targeting of Hindi speakers by MNS. With rising tensions, leaders emphasize unity and respect. Discover how this controversy unfolds and its implications for Maharashtra's diverse linguistic landscape.
Key Takeaways
- Political tensions in Maharashtra are escalating over language issues.
- Shiv Sena-UBT defends the rights of all residents, regardless of language.
- Leaders emphasize the importance of dialogue over violence.
- Recent events signal a potential shift in political alliances.
- Understanding and embracing local culture is essential for harmony.
Mumbai, July 7 (NationPress) The political tension surrounding the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena’s (MNS) recent actions against Hindi-speaking residents in Mumbai intensified on Monday, with Shiv Sena-UBT leader Anand Dubey criticizing BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, labeling those who are perpetuating misunderstandings on the matter as "fools".
This heated exchange came after BJP MP Dubey’s harsh criticism of MNS chief Raj Thackeray and Shiv Sena-UBT President Uddhav Thackeray regarding allegations of MNS workers targeting Hindi speakers.
"If you possess the bravery to confront those speaking Hindi, then you should also confront individuals speaking Urdu, Tamil, and Telugu. If you consider yourself a significant 'boss,' come out of Maharashtra, visit Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu — tumko patak patak ke maarenge,” the BJP leader remarked.
In response, Shiv Sena-UBT spokesperson Anand Dubey told IANS: "Those who are spreading misconceptions and creating controversy about this matter are fools. Their claims are inaccurate. They are instigating confusion by asserting that individuals are being assaulted for speaking Hindi. That’s not the reality. There was a conflict, and by chance, the individual involved was from a different region or caste."
"You cannot hold 40 lakh North Indians accountable for one individual’s conflict. Our party has never shown bias based on caste or religion. Anyone residing in Mumbai is a Mumbaikar — whether Dubey or Yadav, he is a Marathi. If you live in Mumbai, proclaim with pride, ‘I am a Marathi.’ Just as individuals in Bihar identify as Bihari, it is wise to embrace the language and culture of your residence."
Congress leader Aslam Shaikh also responded to the controversy, advocating for calm and mutual respect. "People should strive to learn Marathi. However, assaulting someone for not knowing Marathi is unjust. If such actions occur, strict measures should be taken," he stated to IANS.
Shiv Sena leader Deepak Vasant Kesarkar reiterated the state's tradition of resolving issues through peaceful dialogue rather than violence.
"Maharashtra's culture has never embraced violence. Solutions are consistently sought through discussion and dialogue. Maharashtra is a state of progressive values, and this should be its hallmark," he asserted.
Kesarkar further noted: "Those residing in Maharashtra are quite familiar with Marathi. Just as Kannada is the language of Karnataka and Gujarati in Gujarat, speaking Marathi in Maharashtra is natural. The state's official language is Marathi, as enshrined in our laws. Hence, working in Marathi is essential and standard. Nevertheless, no one should be compelled."
Meanwhile, as MNS resorts to street confrontations over the Marathi language, actor and singer Dinesh Lal Yadav, also known as Nirahua, has thrown an open challenge to the Thackeray cousins.
"I do not converse in Marathi. I communicate in Bhojpuri, and I’m currently residing in Maharashtra. Why are you attempting to drive out the less fortunate? If you have the courage, then attempt to expel me. I’m extending a challenge, even here in Mumbai," he declared to reporters.
The situation intensified after MNS workers vandalized the glass door of Mumbai-based share market investor Sushil Kedia’s office in Worli on Saturday after he publicly refused to converse in Marathi and dared Raj Thackeray to take action.
In a further twist to the political narrative, Uddhav and Raj Thackeray recently shared a platform for the first time in nearly two decades to advocate for the Marathi language and pledged to oppose the “imposition” of Hindi in Maharashtra following the state government’s decision to retract orders advocating Hindi as a third language in primary schools.
Point of View
The ongoing controversy highlights the importance of linguistic diversity and the need for constructive dialogue. It is crucial for political leaders to foster mutual respect and understanding among different communities, ensuring that the cultural fabric of Maharashtra remains intact while addressing any grievances.
NationPress
20/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What sparked the controversy involving MNS and Hindi speakers?
The controversy began when MNS workers targeted Hindi-speaking individuals in Mumbai, prompting backlash from various political leaders.
What did Anand Dubey say in response to the criticism?
Anand Dubey labeled those spreading misconceptions about the issue as 'fools' and emphasized that the conflict involved only one individual.
What stance does Shiv Sena-UBT take regarding language and identity?
Shiv Sena-UBT advocates for unity among all residents of Mumbai, regardless of their linguistic background, and emphasizes pride in being a Mumbaikar.
What actions have been taken against MNS's aggressive stance?
Political leaders have called for calm and mutual respect, stating that violence is not a solution to language-related issues.
How has the political drama evolved recently?
Uddhav and Raj Thackeray recently united on stage to advocate for the Marathi language, opposing the imposition of Hindi in the state.
