Marathi-Hindi language dispute in Maharashtra: Why is the state burning in the fire of violence?

Mumbai: The dispute over Marathi and Hindi language in Maharashtra has taken a violent turn in recent times. The dispute, which started in April 2025, flared up when the state government issued an order to make Hindi compulsory as a third language from first to fifth grade in Marathi and English medium schools. The decision sparked widespread protests alleging a challenge to Marathi identity, which has now turned into violent incidents.

The root of the controversy: Compulsory of Hindi

The government order issued on April 16, 2025, cited the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 to make Hindi a compulsory third language. Marathi-speaking organizations and opposition parties, especially the Shiv Sena (UBT) and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), called it a conspiracy to "impose Hindi". Deepak Pawar of Marathi Abhyas Kendra linked it to the ideology of "Hindi, Hindu, Hindustan". After massive protests, the government withdrew the order in July 2025, but by then tensions had escalated.

Incidents of violence: Marathi identity takes a violent form

In July 2025, several incidents of attacks on non-Hindi speakers were reported in Mumbai and surrounding areas. MNS workers beat up a sweet shop owner in Thane's Bhayander because he replied in Hindi. In a viral video, the shopkeeper was seen being slapped after being told not to speak Marathi. In another incident, stock market investor Sushil Kedia's office in Worli was attacked by MNS workers because he said he did not speak Marathi.

Political overtones: Unity of Thackeray brothers

This controversy brought Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray on one platform after years. In a joint rally held in Mumbai's Worli on July 5, 2025, both showed solidarity against imposition of Hindi. Raj Thackeray said, "Touch Maharashtra and see what happens." However, Aditya Thackeray claimed that it was not a "Hindi vs Marathi" dispute but an issue of burdening young children with three languages.

Government's stand and criticism

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis condemned the violence and said that hooliganism in the name of language will not be tolerated. BJP leader Ashish Shelar compared the attacks on Hindi speakers to the Pahalgam terror attack, drawing strong criticism from the opposition.

Conclusion

The language dispute in Maharashtra is no longer just an issue of educational policy but has become a part of cultural identity and political strategy. These incidents of violence could make Marathi identity a major issue in the upcoming civic elections.