MNS Chief Withdraws Language Campaign, Calls for Government Accountability
Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) president Raj Thackeray has called off his party’s active campaign for the mandatory use of Marathi in banks and commercial establishments across Maharashtra. In a formal statement issued on Saturday, Thackeray emphasized that it is the government’s legal duty to uphold the Marathi Language Act and ensure its implementation.
“We Don’t Support Unlawful Actions, But Law Must Be Followed”: Raj Thackeray
In a letter shared by MNS, Thackeray referenced Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis’ recent statement warning against citizens enforcing laws on their own. “We are not interested in taking the law into our hands,” said Thackeray. “But the government must take responsibility and ensure that the law mandating the use of Marathi is followed in all establishments throughout the state.”
CM Fadnavis Warns Against Vigilantism in Language Enforcement
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had previously addressed the issue, stating that while promoting the Marathi language is commendable, any attempt to impose it through illegal means would not be tolerated. “If someone takes the law into their hands, they will face appropriate action,” he asserted.
MNS Pushes for Marathi Ahead of Civic Elections
The MNS has been intensifying its language promotion efforts ahead of municipal elections in major cities such as Mumbai, Pune, Thane, Nashik, and Nagpur. Over the past few weeks, party workers confronted several bank branches where Marathi was reportedly not being used in customer service.
Recent Incidents Go Viral on Social Media
In separate incidents this week, MNS activists approached managers of nationalized banks in Ambernath (Thane district) and Lonavala (Pune district), demanding compliance with the Marathi language requirement. Videos of these confrontations quickly circulated on social media platforms.
Private Bank in Thane Agrees to Install Marathi Signage
Following discussions with MNS members, a private bank branch in Thane reportedly agreed to display signage in Marathi. However, in another incident, MNS workers took matters into their own hands by removing English-language boards.
Gudi Padwa Rally Highlights Party’s Language Stance
During his Gudi Padwa rally on March 30, Raj Thackeray reiterated his demand for mandatory use of Marathi in official communication. He issued a stern warning to those who deliberately neglect the language, stating they “would be slapped.”
