Devendra Fadnavis Slams MNS: Marathi Pride Can't Justify Assaults

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has issued a stern warning following the recent "Slapgate" controversy, in which Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) members allegedly assaulted a Hindi-speaking shopkeeper near Mumbai. Speaking at a press conference on Friday reacting strongly to the incident, Fadnavis asserted that the government would not tolerate any form of hooliganism or violence carried out under the guise of safeguarding Marathi identity.

The Chief Minister made it unequivocally clear that taking the law into one's own hands, even in the name of defending Marathi language or culture, is unacceptable. His remarks follow mounting public outrage and growing criticism over the assault, which has reignited discussions around linguistic extremism and the rights of non-Marathi communities residing in the state.

In addition to his public stance, Fadnavis also addressed members of the BJP and Mahayuti alliance in a closed-door meeting, urging MLAs to steer clear of provocative or divisive statements. With the monsoon session of the state legislature underway, he emphasized that maintaining unity, discipline, and responsible conduct is crucial. The Chief Minister cautioned that inflammatory rhetoric or any involvement in violence could provide ammunition to political opponents and destabilize the alliance's credibility.

Fadnavis's response signals the government's firm commitment to upholding law and order while ensuring that the rights of every citizen, regardless of linguistic background, are protected. At the same time, he reiterated that any efforts to promote Marathi language and culture must be pursued through lawful and peaceful avenues.