Is the Thackeray Cousins' Alliance a Strategy Against Hindi Imposition in Maharashtra?
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Synopsis
In an unexpected collaboration, Uddhav and Raj Thackeray unite against Hindi imposition in Maharashtra. As the BMC elections near, Shiv Sena's Naresh Maske calls this alliance a strategic ploy to mislead voters. What does this mean for the political landscape of Maharashtra?
Key Takeaways
- The Thackeray cousins have united against Hindi imposition.
- This alliance is viewed as a strategic move before the BMC elections.
- Naresh Maske critiques the authenticity of their collaboration.
- Uddhav Thackeray voices concerns about cultural invasion.
- The political landscape in Maharashtra is heating up as elections approach.
Mumbai, June 30 (NationPress) - As Uddhav and Raj Thackeray unite in their opposition to the "imposition of Hindi" within Maharashtra, Shiv Sena leader Naresh Maske remarked on Monday that this collaboration is merely an effort to mislead the public. He emphasized that with the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, this coalition serves as a tactical approach prior to the polls.
In a politically charged environment leading up to the BMC elections, estranged cousins Uddhav and Raj Thackeray have discovered mutual ground—standing against the imposition of Hindi in Maharashtra’s educational system.
The exchange of harsh words follows Raj Thackeray, the head of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), announcing a protest against the policy set for July 6, later moved to July 5 to avoid a conflict with Ashadhi Ekadashi, a significant religious event in Maharashtra.
In a statement to IANS, Maske expressed, "They are brothers—if they unite, that’s fine. Even if they don’t, why should we react? However, I want to pose a question to Uddhav Thackeray: Raj Thackeray once led the Bharatiya Vidyarthi Sena to broaden Shiv Sena (UBT)’s influence across villages. When he was elevating Shiv Sena-UBT, why was Raj sidelined? Why was he forced out? Address that before questioning us."
Maske asserted that the government remains robust, despite opposition claims.
"Why would the government fail? We maintain our mandate. The true risk is to the Marathi identity. As elections draw near, particularly for the BMC or Mumbai Mahanagar Palika, we witness these strategies. Their agenda is to create a false narrative that Marathi is under threat, and Mumbai is at risk. This is the strategy of Shiv Sena-UBT. They are reviving this so-called cultural protest merely as a tactic for votes," he added.
Separately, Uddhav Thackeray has endorsed a march set for July 7, initiated by the Tribhasha Sutra (Three Language Formula) Anti-Mumbai Coordination Committee. "We will resist the imposition of Hindi as a third language in Marathi and English schools for Classes 1 to 5 in Maharashtra. This transcends educational matters; it is a cultural invasion," he stated.
Additionally, Uddhav Thackeray questioned the constitutional validity and political agenda behind this policy, referencing remarks made by BJP national President J.P. Nadda and calling for a review of the state’s education system.
Point of View
I observe that the Thackeray cousins' alliance raises questions about political strategy versus genuine concern for cultural identity. Their collaboration may resonate with voters but also risks being viewed as a calculated move in the face of the upcoming elections. The true test will be how this impacts voter sentiment during the BMC elections.
NationPress
30/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main issue the Thackeray cousins are opposing?
The Thackeray cousins are opposing the imposition of Hindi in Maharashtra's school curriculum.
Why did Raj Thackeray change the date of his protest?
Raj Thackeray rescheduled his protest to avoid conflicting with the Ashadhi Ekadashi festival.
What does Naresh Maske claim about the Thackeray alliance?
Naresh Maske claims that the alliance is a tactic to mislead the public ahead of the BMC elections.
What is the significance of the BMC elections?
The BMC elections are crucial as they determine local governance and political power in Mumbai.
How does Uddhav Thackeray view the policy on Hindi imposition?
Uddhav Thackeray sees the Hindi imposition as a cultural encroachment and questions its constitutional basis.
