The recent rapprochement between the Thackeray cousins- Uddhav Tackeray and Raj Thackeray- has reignited a potent and concerning ideology within Maharashtra’s political landscape: the fervent assertion of Marathi pride. The reunion, occurring two decades after a familial split over Shiv Sena succession, has found common ground in the language agenda, particularly following the state government’s efforts to introduce Hindi in schools. The implications of this renewed focus on linguistic identity are deeply troubling, manifesting in aggressive rhetoric and unsettling incidents across the state. The pronouncements emanating from the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) led by Raj Thackeray are a stark indicator of this escalating tension. Public declarations threatening physical retribution against those who do not comprehend Marathi underscore a dangerous intolerance. These words are not mere bluster; they are swiftly translating into coercive actions on the ground. What used to take place during the pre-split of the Shiv Sena made many Marathis themselves deeply pained. A recent episode in Mira Road, reflects the return of such a scenario. The episode involved a sweet shop owner facing assault by MNS workers over language. This tragically illustrates the immediate consequences of such inflammatory rhetoric. This incident, disturbing in its own right, was soon followed by another equally alarming display of parochial zeal. A viral video depicted a former Member of Parliament and senior leader from the Shiv Sena (UBT) allegedly summoning traders to his office in Thane. There, his supporters reportedly subjected these individuals to physical humiliation and forced public apologies, all for the perceived transgression of not conducting business in Marathi. The repeated demands for Marathi usage highlight a coercive environment where linguistic conformity is enforced through intimidation.These parallel developments from both the Shiv Sena (UBT) and the MNS represent a significant erosion of democratic principles. While one political faction and its allies are seen to advance a distinct brand of religious nationalism, the re-emerging Thackeray nexus champions an equally exclusive form of linguistic and regional identity. Both approaches, despite their differing specifics, share a common characteristic: a move away from the constitutional promise of equality and towards the imposition of majoritarian will. The essence of a robust constitutional democracy lies in its protection of diverse identities and its commitment to equal rights for all citizens, irrespective of their language, religion, or origin. When political discourse and actions begin to privilege one group’s identity over others, enforcing conformity through coercion and intimidation, the fundamental tenets of democratic governance are undermined. The current trajectory in Maharashtra, marked by these assertive and at times violent expressions of linguistic parochialism, suggests a worrying shift from governance by constitutional rule to an increasingly majoritarian ethos. Such happenings be it communally divisive narrative or language parochialism exposes the schisms within the nation’s tapestry. The climate of confusion and hatred being propagated by political parties for power is a threat on the nation. A nation can progress if there is justice and rule of the constitution. Citizens now need to reaffirm their commitment to inclusivity and protect the rights and dignity of all citizens irrespective of race, religion and language.
Sunday, July 27, 2025