Mumbai, August 22: SP MLA Rais Sheikh has sharply responded to remarks made by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath regarding the Samajwadi Party (SP). Sheikh emphasized that the SP does not engage in caste or religion-based politics but fights for the rights of marginalized and underprivileged communities. He accused the CM of attempting to create polarization and confusion among the public through such statements.
Sheikh stated that the Samajwadi Party does not oppose any caste or religion. He pointed out that if individuals from any caste or religion are socially and economically disadvantaged, the party has consistently raised their voices and will continue to do so. The party’s political agenda has always focused on progress and the interests of all societal groups.
In response to CM Yogi’s comments, Sheikh asserted that such statements aim to foster divisive politics and mislead the public. He highlighted pressing issues in the education system and youth-related matters, suggesting that divisive topics are being introduced to divert attention from these serious concerns. He referred to the alleged paper leak in the NEET exam and controversies surrounding students, questioning the state of the education sector in recent years. Instead of addressing these issues, he criticized the political discourse for shifting towards caste and religion.
Sheikh also raised concerns regarding the RTO’s actions against auto and taxi drivers in Mumbai who do not speak Marathi. He stressed the need to understand the reality of Mumbai, where people from various regions play a crucial role in the economy and daily life. Many individuals, including auto-rickshaw drivers and bakery workers, come from different states to earn a living in Mumbai. The government should focus on providing facilities for these individuals to learn the Marathi language.
He expressed his affection for the Marathi language, stating, “Marathi is a beautiful language, and I speak it myself.” Sheikh clarified that he is not against learning or speaking Marathi but is questioning the alleged pressure and actions taken regarding the language. He believes that millions of migrants living in Mumbai should be given ample time and resources to learn Marathi. Language should not be imposed forcefully; respect and acceptance for a language must come from the heart.
Sheikh acknowledged that Marathi is the language of Maharashtra and that people coming to Mumbai from different parts of the country also respect it. He encouraged people to learn Marathi but insisted that the government should provide training, learning facilities, and sufficient time for this process. He warned that actions perceived as coercive, such as license suspensions in the name of language, are not in the best interest of Mumbai. Such measures could hinder the city’s progress rather than advance it.
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