Raj Thackeray Warns Of School Shutdowns Over Hindi Imposition In Maharashtra

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray, while addressing a rally in Mira-Bhayandar on Friday (18 July), strongly opposed the imposition of Hindi in Maharashtra’s schools, reported The Indian Express.

He warned that if Hindi is made compulsory from Classes 1 to 5, his party will “shut down schools”.

His statement followed Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis’s recent declaration of implementing the three-language policy.

Fadnavis had assured that the third language would remain optional, based on committee recommendations.

Marathi Identity is Non-Negotiable

Thackeray stated, “I will never compromise on the Marathi person, the Marathi language, or the Marathi identity.”

He urged people in Maharashtra to learn and use Marathi in daily life.

"If you want to live peacefully in Maharashtra, respect the language and the people. If not, expect a backlash,” he said.

“Whether you are in a train, bus, taxi, shop, or hospital — speak in Marathi and make the other person speak in Marathi too,” Thackeray said.

Accuses Government of Political Agenda

Thackeray alleged the push for Hindi was part of a larger plan to change Maharashtra’s electoral dynamics.

He claimed that non-Marathi-speaking migrants were being settled in areas like Mira-Bhayandar and Palghar to shift the voter base.

“Eventually, they will elect their own corporators, MLAs, and MPs, and you — the sons of the soil — will be pushed aside,” he warned.

Criticism of Centre and BJP Leaders

Thackeray also accused the Centre of ignoring demands for classical language status to Marathi.

He criticised BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, saying, “Dubey, come to Mumbai if you dare. We will drown you in the sea.”

He added, “We are staunch Hindus, yes. But we are not Hindi slaves.”

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