MNS Workers Held for Pressuring Shopkeepers to Speak Marathi in Mumbai
Mumbai, July 8, 2025 — Tensions escalated in several parts of Mumbai as activists of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) launched a campaign urging — and allegedly threatening — traders to use Marathi while conducting business.
The incident has once again ignited debate over linguistic identity versus cosmopolitanism in India’s financial capital.
🗣️ ‘Marathi First’ Protest Sparks Outrage
The MNS, known for championing Marathi pride, initiated surprise visits to local markets and shops, demanding that shopkeepers and staff greet and converse in Marathi with customers. However, the situation turned tense when videos surfaced showing MNS activists allegedly harassing non-Marathi-speaking traders, particularly in areas like Dadar, Chembur, and Andheri.
👮 Police Detain Multiple MNS Workers
In a swift crackdown, Mumbai Police detained several party workers for inciting fear and disrupting public order. A senior police officer stated:
“We will not tolerate threats or forced imposition of any language. Mumbai is a multilingual city, and everyone has the right to operate freely.”
The exact number of detentions is yet to be confirmed, but sources suggest over a dozen MNS members have been booked under relevant sections of the IPC.
🧭 City’s Diversity vs Regional Identity
Critics argue that MNS’s campaign fuels divisiveness, especially in a city that thrives on diversity. Civil rights groups and opposition leaders have condemned the move, calling it “dangerous posturing” ahead of potential local elections.
Conversely, MNS leaders defended the action, claiming that promoting Marathi in Maharashtra is a legitimate demand and not an attack on any community.
🏙️ Mumbai’s Cosmopolitan Spirit at Stake?
This isn’t the first time the Marathi vs non-Marathi debate has surfaced in Mumbai. Previous campaigns by MNS targeting Hindi-speaking migrants and signboards in non-Marathi languages have drawn national attention and criticism.
Observers fear that such recurring incidents harm Mumbai’s image as an inclusive urban hub.
