A fresh controversy has erupted in Mira Road after members of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) allegedly slapped a local shopkeeper for not speaking in Marathi. According to eyewitnesses, the confrontation escalated quickly when the shopkeeper failed to respond in Marathi and instead answered in Hindi, prompting MNS workers to resort to physical assault.
The incident has drawn sharp reactions from across the political spectrum. While MNS has not officially responded, videos of the assault circulating on social media have sparked widespread condemnation and concern over the rise of linguistic vigilantism.
This is not the first time MNS, led by Raj Thackeray, has been in the spotlight for pushing the Marathi language agenda. The party has long advocated for the prioritization of Marathi in business establishments, public offices, and signage across Maharashtra. However, critics argue that such aggressive enforcement of regional language pride often leads to communal and social unrest.
Local police have taken cognizance of the incident and are currently reviewing CCTV footage to identify those involved. Meanwhile, civil rights groups and citizens have raised questions over the growing intolerance and the misuse of political muscle in everyday interactions.
As the issue gains political traction, all eyes are now on how the state government responds and whether action will be taken against the accused MNS members.