Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday reacted strongly to the clashes between Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) workers and supporters of Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam, saying that while Marathi should be given priority in Mumbai and across Maharashtra, such issues must not turn violent.
His remarks came after tensions erupted in Mumbai during a protest over the state government’s decision to make Marathi communication mandatory for auto-rickshaw, taxi and app-based cab drivers from May 1.
MNS Protest Turns Violent in Mumbai
The confrontation broke out after MNS workers allegedly vandalised Sanjay Nirupam’s car while protesting against his opposition to the Marathi language rule for commercial drivers.
Nirupam had reportedly reached out to support Hindi-speaking auto drivers who were against the decision, leading to heated arguments and scuffles between the two groups before police intervened to bring the situation under control.
The incident has intensified the ongoing political and social debate surrounding the enforcement of Marathi communication norms in Maharashtra.
Marathi Rule Sparks Political Debate
The state government’s decision to strictly implement Marathi communication requirements for commercial drivers has triggered widespread reactions.
The rule, which will come into effect from May 1, will apply to auto-rickshaw drivers, taxi operators and app-based cab drivers. The government said the measure was introduced after repeated complaints from commuters regarding communication difficulties.
While the decision has been welcomed by pro-Marathi groups, it has also faced resistance from some driver unions and political leaders who fear it could affect the livelihoods of drivers unfamiliar with the language.
Fadnavis Says Violence Will Not Be Tolerated
Addressing reporters, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis made it clear that promoting Marathi is important but violence in its name will not be accepted.
“First of all, it is not wrong to say that Marathi should be given priority in Mumbai or Maharashtra. However, the government’s role is to ensure that such issues do not lead to disputes,” Fadnavis said.
He further added, “We do not approve of violence. We will teach Marathi to auto and taxi drivers in Maharashtra who do not know it, and not let injustice happen to anyone.”
The statement was seen as an attempt to balance regional language promotion with maintaining law and order.
Sanjay Nirupam Appeals for Flexible Marathi Requirement
Earlier in the day, Sanjay Nirupam visited Ganpat Patil Nagar in Dahisar to speak with auto-rickshaw drivers and reassure them over the Marathi language policy.
Speaking to PTI, Nirupam said he encouraged drivers to learn Marathi but urged them not to panic over fears of licence cancellation.
“MNS workers came there and shouted slogans against me,” Nirupam said.
Auto Driver Unions Threaten Statewide Protest
The controversy has also angered several trade unions representing auto-rickshaw drivers, some of which have threatened to launch a statewide agitation from May 4.
Union leaders argue that while learning Marathi is reasonable, forcing drivers to pass language exams may create hardship for thousands of workers, especially migrants who depend on commercial driving for their livelihood.
The proposed protests could further intensify pressure on the state government to reconsider or modify the implementation process.
Political Tensions Rise Over Marathi Language Policy
The latest clash highlights how language policies continue to remain politically sensitive in Maharashtra.
While regional groups are demanding stronger enforcement of Marathi usage, opposition voices are calling for a practical and inclusive approach that protects both cultural identity and economic interests.
With protests mounting and unions preparing agitation, the government now faces the challenge of enforcing the Marathi rule without triggering further unrest.
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