Synopsis
Bhaiyyaji Joshi emphasizes the necessity of learning Marathi in Mumbai and Maharashtra, amidst criticism for previous remarks regarding language diversity. Political leaders demand clarity on the importance of Marathi following his statements.Key Takeaways
- Bhaiyyaji Joshi reaffirms the necessity of learning Marathi.
- Criticism arises from political leaders regarding language diversity in Mumbai.
- Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis supports the learning of Marathi.
- Protests against Joshi's comments are organized by Shiv Sena-UBT.
- Calls for Joshi to be charged for treason are made by Uddhav Thackeray.
Mumbai, March 6 (NationPress) Amid the ongoing linguistic debate, senior Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leader Bhaiyyaji Joshi stated on Thursday that Marathi is the predominant language of Mumbai and Maharashtra, and it is essential for everyone residing here to learn it.
This statement came shortly after opposition figures criticized him for suggesting that "there is no necessity for newcomers to Mumbai to learn Marathi. Numerous languages are spoken here, including Gujarati in the Ghatkopar region. There is no single dominant language in Mumbai."
Joshi later clarified, "My previous remarks may have caused some misunderstanding. I was addressing the coexistence of various languages. Nonetheless, I want to emphasize that Marathi is indeed the language of Mumbai and Maharashtra, and it is important for everyone living here to learn it."
Previously, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis remarked in the state Assembly that he had not reviewed Joshi's comments but would certainly investigate the matter.
The Chief Minister affirmed, "Marathi is the language of Mumbai and Maharashtra. There will be no disrespect to other languages. Those who respect their mother tongue should also respect others."
Shiv Sena-UBT leader Bhaskar Jadhav has requested CM Fadnavis' involvement regarding Joshi's statements.
Jadhav highlighted, "The Centre has recently granted Classical Language Status to Marathi. In light of this, I urge the Chief Minister to clarify the government's position on Joshi's remarks."
Shiv Sena UBT legislator Anil Parab criticized Joshi, claiming there has been an effort to impose the Gujarati language in Mumbai and Maharashtra after "taking away" industrial projects from the state.
Shiv Sena-UBT chief Uddhav Thackeray, along with Congress and NCP-SP legislators, visited the Martyrs' Memorial at Hutatma Chowk in South Mumbai to protest against Joshi's comments.
Thackeray stated, "No matter how much negativity they spread, they cannot sever the connection between Mumbai and the Marathi people." He further asserted, "There is a plan to fragment Mumbai."
Thackeray called for Joshi to be charged with treason and reminded that during his term as Chief Minister, a law was enacted to make Marathi compulsory.
Moreover, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray also condemned Joshi for his statements and challenged the RSS veteran to express similar sentiments in Bengaluru or Chennai.
"It’s clear that Joshi is aware of the linguistic divisions in the country and the sacrifices made by 106 martyrs for a united Maharashtra, including Mumbai. So why make such remarks about Maharashtra or Marathi? I dare him to make such statements in Bengaluru or Chennai," asserted the MNS leader.
He questioned, "Does the Bharatiya Janata Party in Maharashtra agree with Joshi's comments? If any responsible person had made such a statement in another state, all political parties there would have protested. Will the BJP prioritize Maharashtra's identity?"
Thackeray concluded, stating that Joshi must recognize that the Marathi people are not oblivious to the current situation.
"Has Joshi forgotten that he is Marathi while engaging in this political discourse?" asked Raj Thackeray.
He warned that the Marathi community would not forget Joshi's remarks.
