Virar, Maharashtra – July 13, 2025: A new chapter in the ongoing language pride conflict in Maharashtra has unfolded. Shiv Sena (UBT) workers allegedly assaulted an auto-rickshaw driver in Virar over derogatory remarks about the Marathi language. The video of the incident quickly went viral, triggering political and public reactions.
What Happened in Virar?
The incident occurred on Saturday near Virar railway station in Palghar district. According to PTI, the auto driver—reportedly a migrant—made insulting remarks about the Marathi language and culture. These comments, allegedly captured in a now-viral video, triggered outrage among local Shiv Sena (UBT) workers.
The driver was slapped, shamed publicly, and forced to apologise. He bowed before a man and his sister—whom he had allegedly misbehaved with earlier—and to the state of Maharashtra, its language, and its icons.
Police Response and Legal Status
Despite the viral video, police said no official complaint had been lodged. A senior official told PTI, We are verifying the video’s authenticity, but neither party has filed a formal complaint. No FIR has been registered yet.
The police remain on alert, considering the communal and political sensitivity of the case.
Shiv Sena’s Reaction: “True Sena Style”
Uday Jadhav, Shiv Sena (UBT) Virar city president, defended the group’s actions. Speaking to reporters, he said, If anyone insults Maharashtra or Marathi manoos, they will be taught a lesson in true Sena style.
He added that the party made the driver apologise as a symbolic act of protecting Marathi asmita (pride).
Ongoing Marathi Language Row
This incident is part of a larger language pride movement unfolding across Maharashtra:
- On July 1, MNS workers slapped a food vendor in Bhayander for not speaking Marathi.
- On July 8, a major rally was held in Mira-Bhayander led by MNS, Shiv Sena (UBT), and NCP factions to assert Marathi pride.
These actions have sparked a polarised debate. While some support the need to preserve regional identity, others fear rising regionalism and vigilante behavior.
Caption: Protesters in Mira-Bhayander demand enforcement of Marathi in public dealings.
Description: Hundreds of MNS, Shiv Sena (UBT), and NCP supporters rally in support of Marathi language pride in Mira-Bhayander, Maharashtra.
Public Divided on Language Pride vs Vigilantism
Social media users are split. A TOI poll revealed mixed opinions—some said public shaming was justified to protect culture, while others called it mob justice.
Legal experts warn that forcing someone to apologise on camera amounts to coercion, and could qualify as assault or criminal intimidation under the Indian Penal Code if a complaint is filed.
Political Underpinnings
This language activism coincides with rising tensions between MNS and Shiv Sena (UBT), both vying for control over the “Marathi manoos” vote bank ahead of the 2025 Maharashtra assembly polls.
BJP MP Nishikant Dubey even challenged Raj Thackeray’s MNS, saying, If you’re truly brave, confront Ambani, Mahim Muslims, or SBI chiefs. Don’t target the poor.
The language row seems to be turning into a proxy battleground for deeper political rivalries and identity politics.
Looking Ahead: What’s at Stake?
The repeated incidents raise serious questions:
- Can love for one’s language justify physical assault?
- Where do we draw the line between pride and provocation?
- Is Maharashtra’s identity being strengthened or fractured by these actions?
Until proper legislation or clear political consensus is achieved, such incidents may continue to spark outrage and deepen divides.
