Mumbai, May 9: BJP leader Haji Arafat Sheikh emphasized the importance of the Marathi language for auto and taxi drivers. Speaking to a news agency, he announced that a swearing-in ceremony will take place in Mumbai today, featuring prominent leaders like Pratap Sarnaik, Ramdas Athawale, and Ashish Shelar. They will pledge to enhance their Marathi speaking skills within six months, showcasing their progress.
Sheikh stated that many people from Uttar Pradesh will also speak Marathi, sending a clear message that they do not need to be taught the language. He asserted that the law applies equally to everyone. If a Muslim individual commits an offense, the law, police, administration, and government are in place to address it.
He clarified that he does not support any wrongdoers. If someone from Bangladesh or Pakistan operates a rickshaw illegally, he will not back them. His stance is to ensure action against such illegal activities.
On May 1, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stressed the importance of pride in one’s mother tongue. He declared that the state government will not tolerate violence or discrimination based on language. Speaking to the media at Hutatma Chowk on Maharashtra Day, he stated that everyone residing in the state should learn the local language. He issued a stern warning against using linguistic pride as a pretext for violence or intimidation.
The state government has made it mandatory for rickshaw drivers to speak Marathi, and those who do not know the language must learn it. This decision faced opposition from rickshaw unions, prompting the government to extend the compliance deadline to August.
Raj Thackeray, the leader of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena, questioned how anyone could have the audacity to refuse to speak Marathi. His remarks have added a political dimension to the issue. Thackeray criticized the government’s leniency and suggested that permits of drivers who fail to comply with the rules should be revoked immediately.
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Arpit Soni has had a passion for journalism since the beginning. Now he has turned this hobby into his profession. Arpit, who is a resident of Udaipur, enjoys editing and writing news related to journalism. He has worked as a Senior Content Producer in several important roles at Bhaskar, Patrika, Pratahkal, Punjab Kesari, and Times. Arpit completed his schooling in Udaipur and Jaipur. He has been working in the media industry for more than 10 years, and his journey is still continuing. ✍️📚
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