These days, the Marathi vs Hindi language controversy has once again flared up in Maharashtra’s capital Mumbai and its suburbs. This debate is no longer limited to linguistic identity, but political and social tension has also been added to it. The latest case has come to light from Ghatkopar, where a woman was forced to speak in Marathi by some people, and its video has gone viral on social media.
What is the Ghatkopar incident?
A woman named Sanjira Devi was standing in front of her house when some people blocked her way. When she asked them for some space, she got the reply – “Speak in Marathi, this is Maharashtra.” When Sanjira spoke in Hindi, the debate intensified. The woman retorted, “You speak Hindi, are you not from India? I will not speak in Marathi.” Seeing this heated debate, a crowd gathered around and someone called the police. However, the people arguing had left the place before the police arrived.
Clash over language in local train too
This dispute was not limited to the streets only. A few days ago, a heated debate broke out between women on Marathi vs Hindi in the ladies coach of a Mumbai local train. One woman scolded another for not speaking Marathi and said, “If you want to stay in Mumbai, speak Marathi, otherwise get out.” Soon other women also joined the debate and the matter escalated to abuse and pushing.
Political background and role of MNS
Raj Thackeray’s Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has been campaigning for a long time to promote the Marathi language in Maharashtra. Recently, MNS workers have been accused of threatening and attacking non-Marathi speakers. The party put up posters in Navi Mumbai warning people to “Learn Marathi or face the consequences”.