Will the Thackeray Brothers Unite for an Anti-Hindi Protest?
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Synopsis
In a significant turn of events, senior Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut has revealed that the Thackeray brothers will join forces for a single protest against the imposition of Hindi in Maharashtra schools. This unexpected alliance raises questions about their political future and unity in the face of shared challenges.
Key Takeaways
- One protest will be held by the Thackeray brothers against Hindi imposition.
- The protest is scheduled for July 5, 2023.
- Speculation about reconciliation between Uddhav and Raj Thackeray is growing.
- Support from both parties indicates a united front against Hindi imposition.
- The protest is significant for Marathi culture in education.
New Delhi, June 27 (NationPress) In light of plans to conduct two protests against the enforcement of Hindi in Maharashtra's schools, senior Shiv Sena (UBT) figure Sanjay Raut declared on Friday that there will only be one unified demonstration featuring both Thackeray brothers.
While no official statement has been released by either the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) or Shiv Sena (UBT), Raut's post on X, showcasing a photograph of the two cousins alongside a picture of the late Bal Thackeray, has sparked speculation of a possible reconciliation between Uddhav and Raj Thackeray for a joint protest.
Previously, before Raj Thackeray’s birthday, Uddhav Thackeray had also hinted at a potential reconciliation, although no significant developments occurred.
On Thursday, MNS chief Raj Thackeray announced a change in the protest date to July 5 instead of July 6, opposing the imposition of Hindi in Marathi and English medium schools for grades 1 to 5 in Maharashtra.
This change was made because the auspicious occasion of Ashadhi Ekadashi falls on July 6, when devotees fast and travel to Pandharpur to honor the deity Vitthal.
Notably, on Thursday, Uddhav Thackeray expressed his party’s support for a morcha scheduled for July 7 in Mumbai, organized by the Tribhasha Sutra (Three Language Formula) Anti-Mumbai Coordination Committee.
Raut’s announcement is crucial as both brothers and their respective parties had previously committed to opposing the imposition of Hindi, yet they had proposed separate protests.
Insiders from both organizations indicate that collaborative efforts are underway to unite in order to prevent division among Marathi speakers opposing Hindi's imposition.
It remains to be seen whether Raut’s announcement was a personal initiative or endorsed by the leaders of both parties, as the estranged brothers appear to be coming together for a cause they both deeply care about.
Point of View
The unity of the Thackeray brothers could signal a significant shift in Maharashtra's political landscape. As regional sentiments intensify around language imposition, their collaboration is critical. This move reflects a broader effort to consolidate opposition against policies perceived as undermining local culture. It is crucial for national discourse to support regional identities while fostering unity.
NationPress
27/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the reason behind the Thackeray brothers' protest?
The protest aims to oppose the imposition of Hindi in Marathi and English medium schools for classes 1 to 5 in Maharashtra.
When is the protest scheduled to take place?
The unified protest is scheduled for July 5, 2023.
What has sparked speculation about the Thackeray brothers' reconciliation?
Sanjay Raut's social media post featuring a photo of both brothers has fueled speculation of their potential reconciliation.
How have the parties involved reacted to the situation?
Both the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena and Shiv Sena have shown signs of collaboration to prevent division among Marathi speakers.
What cultural significance does the protest hold?
The protest is significant as it addresses concerns about regional identity and the protection of Marathi language and culture in educational institutions.
