Maharashtra: Uddhav Thackeray extended a hand of alliance to Raj Thackeray amidst Hindi Imposition Row

A major controversy has erupted in the state over the government's decision to make Hindi a compulsory subject from the first grade. Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray was the first to oppose the move. He recently stated that if Hindi is imposed on us, conflict will be inevitable. Following this, Uddhav Thackeray, leader of the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) faction, questioned, “Why should Hindi be forced upon us?” and echoed Raj Thackeray’s stance on the issue.

Raj Thackeray responded by saying that he is ready to join hands with Uddhav Thackeray and back the issue of promoting the Marathi language as a united front. However, the MNS Chief also put forth a condition for Uddhav to fulfill. Meanwhile, several other political leaders in the state have now reacted to the ongoing debate.

Uddhav Thackeray, while addressing a gathering of the Bharatiya Kamgar Sena in Dadar, replied to Raj Thackeray , saying, “For the sake of Marathi and in Maharashtra’s interest, I am ready to put aside minor disputes. Once you read the news, you’ll understand the context of what I mean by ‘minor disputes.’ I am also appealing to all Marathi people to unite for the cause of Marathi.” He further added, “For the existence of Maharashtra and Marathi people, such quarrels and disputes are trivial. Coming together and staying united is not difficult. It’s only a matter of intent. It’s not about my personal desire or selfish interest, we need to look at the bigger picture. And I am looking at that picture.”

While giving a positive response, Uddhav Thackeray also laid down a condition: “I have just one condition. When we were raising concerns in the Lok Sabha about administration being shifted from Maharashtra to Gujarat, had there been opposition at that time, this government wouldn't have been formed. Instead, we could’ve had a government at both the Centre and state that worked in Maharashtra's interest. The anti-worker labor laws would’ve been thrown out back then. You can’t offer support then, oppose now, and seek compromises again. If anyone stands in the way of Maharashtra’s interest, I will neither welcome them, nor will I go to their house or break bread with them. Let that be clear before we talk about Maharashtra’s interest.”

“As for the disputes between us, they were never initiated by me. I’ve let them go. Let’s move ahead, but first, let’s decide: Maharashtra’s interest. At that point, all Marathi people must decide do you want to go with the BJP or with me, with my Shiv Sena not the rebel faction, not the traitors. Decide who truly stands for the welfare of Marathi and Maharashtra. If it’s me, then give me your support, or oppose me unconditionally, I have no objection. The only condition is Maharashtra’s interest. But there should be no backdoor meetings or covert alliances with these thieves. Don’t promote them. That should be the first pledge to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Only then should you raise your hand to clap,” Uddhav Thackeray declared.​