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The article details Raj Thackeray's address to Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) workers regarding violent incidents related to the use of the Marathi language. Thackeray, while ostensibly advising against violence, simultaneously condoned it by stating that if someone creates "unnecessary drama," they should be hit "below their eardrums," but warned against recording such acts. This seemingly contradictory stance reveals a complex and arguably dangerous approach to language politics and enforcement within the MNS. The comments were made at a public event celebrating the Maharashtra government's reversal of its Hindi language mandate in schools, a policy that had sparked widespread opposition and protests in the state. This context is crucial, as it highlights the sensitivity surrounding language issues in Maharashtra and the potential for them to be exploited for political gain. Thackeray's statements can be interpreted as a calculated attempt to appease both hardline supporters who advocate for aggressive enforcement of Marathi language use and those who are concerned about the party's image and the legal repercussions of violence. The suggestion to avoid filming such incidents is particularly troubling, as it implies an intention to conceal evidence of wrongdoing and evade accountability. The tweet quoted in the article criticizes Thackeray's history of using violence to promote his political agenda, painting him as someone who lacks legitimate success but maintains a swagger that justifies such actions. This criticism underscores the concerns about the MNS's track record and the potential for Thackeray's comments to be interpreted as an endorsement of further violence.
The article also mentions specific incidents of violence perpetrated by MNS workers, including the vandalism of Sushil Kedia's Mumbai office after he stated on X that he would not learn Marathi. This incident demonstrates the real-world consequences of Thackeray's rhetoric and the willingness of some MNS supporters to resort to violence to enforce their views on language. The fact that stones were thrown at Kedia's property highlights the severity of the attack and the potential for physical harm. Furthermore, the article mentions an assault on a shopkeeper in Mira Road for refusing to speak Marathi, which was filmed and shared online, sparking outrage and leading to a shutdown of shops in protest. This incident illustrates the broader impact of these acts of violence on the community, as well as the role of social media in amplifying awareness and generating condemnation. The fact that local traders felt compelled to shut down their shops in protest demonstrates the level of fear and intimidation that these incidents have instilled. The mention of Sushil Kedia receiving threats and seeking protection a day before his office was vandalized further emphasizes the premeditated nature of the attack and the vulnerability of individuals who express dissenting views on language issues.
In a surprising turn, the article notes a rare moment of political unity in Mumbai, with Raj Thackeray and Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray sharing the stage after two decades of estrangement. Uddhav Thackeray hinted at a possible alliance between Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS, suggesting a potential shift in the political landscape of Maharashtra. This development is significant, as it could reshape the dynamics of power and influence in the state. The fact that Uddhav and Raj Thackeray jointly addressed a meeting further underscores the potential for a reconciliation and a united front. The government's earlier decision to make Hindi compulsory in primary education and the subsequent reversal after widespread opposition demonstrates the political volatility of language policy in Maharashtra. This backdrop highlights the sensitivity of the issue and the potential for it to be used as a tool for political mobilization. Raj Thackeray's advice to MNS workers, however carefully worded, serves as a reminder of the persistent tensions surrounding language and identity in Maharashtra, and the risks associated with using violence to enforce particular viewpoints. The delicate balance between promoting regional languages and respecting the rights of individuals to choose their preferred language remains a challenge for policymakers and political leaders alike.