Following remarks made by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey concerning the treatment of Hindi speakers in Maharashtra, MNS Chief Raj Thackeray has delivered a forceful response. Dubey had stated, “Marathi logon ko hum yahan pe patak patak ke maarenge” (We will beat up Marathi people here), which prompted a strong reaction from Thackeray.
Thackeray countered with a direct warning: “A BJP MP said, ‘Marathi logon ko hum yahan pe patak patak ke maarenge’…You come to Mumbai. Mumbai ke samundar mein dubo dubo ke maarenge” (We will drown you in the sea of Mumbai). This statement underscores the heightened tensions surrounding language and regional identity.
During a public address in Mumbai, Thackeray clarified that his intentions were not to ignite a language war. He warned, “Beware, anything can happen with you. I am a Hindu but Hindi cannot be imposed on me. If anyone has a right over this region, it is we (Marathis). You are the sons of Maharashtra, others have come from outside. If someone comes here and does something a little too much, then beat them up.”
In the meantime, Nishikant Dubey has defended his controversial statements. He reiterated his position stating, “I am saying this again, I stand by my statements. This nation is diverse, and all its people have a strong affection for their region…If Maharashtra is a part of this country, then anyone can be settled anywhere in this country…But they beat up those who are Hindi language speakers…Even today, only 31-32% Marathi speakers live in Mumbai…I accept that Maharashtra has a huge contribution to the economy, I have huge respect for Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.”