Why Was a Student Attacked for Speaking Marathi?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Navi Mumbai recently witnessed a shocking incident where a student was attacked for insisting on using Marathi in a WhatsApp group. This violent clash reflects the ongoing tensions regarding language in Maharashtra, especially following the government's controversial educational policies. The repercussions of this altercation highlight the serious societal issues at play.
Key Takeaways
- Language tensions in Maharashtra reflect deeper societal issues.
- Violence over language is unacceptable and should be condemned.
- The government's approach to trilingual education is controversial.
- Political leaders play a significant role in shaping public opinion on language.
- Respect for all languages is crucial for social harmony.
Navi Mumbai, July 26 (NationPress) A dispute over language escalated into violence in Navi Mumbai, leading to the police booking four students, with one arrested, for allegedly assaulting a classmate who insisted on conversing in Marathi within their WhatsApp group.
According to sources from the Vashi police, a 20-year-old named Suraj Pawar reported that he was attacked on Tuesday with a hockey stick outside Motilal Jhunjhunwala College, Vashi, where they are enrolled.
Reports indicate that Pawar had posted an invitation in a WhatsApp group regarding a family member’s wedding. When classmate Faizal Naik responded in Hindi, Pawar questioned why he did not use Marathi, which sparked a confrontation. Pawar alleged that Naik and three other classmates pursued him and struck him on the head with a hockey stick.
The police confirmed that Naik was apprehended following an investigation, and a case was registered against all four students under section 118(1) of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, concerning causing hurt or grievous hurt with dangerous weapons.
This incident is part of a broader language controversy following the Maharashtra government’s decision to introduce Hindi as a third language alongside Marathi and English for grades 1 to 5.
However, strong opposition protests, particularly from estranged siblings Uddhav Thackeray of Shiv Sena-UBT and Raj Thackeray of Maharashtra Navnirman Sena, led to the government retracting its resolutions and announcing the formation of a committee, led by former Planning Commission member Narendra Jadhav, to recommend the implementation of the trilingual policy.
Both Thackeray brothers have warned against the imposition of Hindi from grade one. Following this, MNS workers have attacked several individuals not speaking Marathi.
In response to the MNS assaults against non-Marathi speakers, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that the government would take action against those involved, warning that such violent incidents would not be tolerated.
He emphasized the importance of respecting all languages while taking pride in one’s mother tongue, stating that language is a vital means of communication and a repository of knowledge.
CM Fadnavis remarked: "Our issue is not with Marathi or Hindi. Alongside Marathi, other Indian languages should also be respected. It is only natural to insist on the Marathi language in Maharashtra, which is not wrong."
He cautioned that any acts of violence over language disputes would face strict repercussions: “We have acted before, and if anyone attempts this again, the government will intervene,” he added.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize that language diversity enriches our culture. The recent attack in Navi Mumbai should serve as a wake-up call for all of us. Violence is never a solution, and we must foster an environment where all languages are respected. Understanding and communication are essential in a multicultural society like India.
NationPress
27/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the attack on the student in Navi Mumbai?
The attack was triggered when a student insisted on communication in Marathi within a WhatsApp group, leading to a confrontation with classmates who responded in Hindi.
What actions have been taken by the police?
The police have booked four students, with one arrested, under section 118(1) of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita for causing hurt with dangerous weapons.
Why is there controversy over language in Maharashtra?
The controversy stems from the Maharashtra government's decision to introduce Hindi as a third language in schools, which has faced significant opposition from various political groups.
What is the government's stance on the recent violence?
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has condemned the violence and emphasized that the government will not tolerate assaults over language disputes.
How are the Thackeray brothers involved in this issue?
Uddhav and Raj Thackeray have both opposed the imposition of Hindi, uniting on this issue after years of rivalry, influencing the government's recent policy retractions.
