Amid the ongoing debate over the status and use of Marathi in Maharashtra, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday delivered a firm message, emphasizing that while learning Marathi is essential for residents, any form of violence or intimidation in the name of language will not be tolerated.
Speaking on Maharashtra Day, the Chief Minister clarified the state government’s position following its recent directive encouraging or mandating Marathi proficiency among auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers.
“Everyone living in Maharashtra should learn Marathi, but we do not accept violence in the name of language,” Fadnavis said while addressing the media. He added that linguistic pride should not become a source of division or aggression.
Reinforcing an inclusive approach, he said, “Those who live in Maharashtra should learn Marathi. Those who are trying to learn are welcome, and we will teach those who do not yet know the language.”
The Chief Minister strongly condemned recent incidents where individuals were allegedly targeted over language barriers. “Using violence on the basis of language or beating someone because they do not know the language is not part of our culture, and we do not accept it at all,” he stated.
Fadnavis described Marathi as “simple and beautiful,” encouraging people from diverse backgrounds to learn and adopt it in daily communication.
The state government’s earlier decision requiring Marathi proficiency for public transport drivers had sparked widespread debate and mixed reactions. However, after internal review, authorities extended the compliance deadline from May 1 to August 15 to allow more time for adaptation.
