Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray reignited the language debate on Friday with a fiery speech in Mira-Bhayandar, asserting that those who refuse to speak or understand Marathi in the state could face physical consequences.

"If you can't understand Marathi even when spoken directly into your ear, then a slap is guaranteed below it. People are making a fuss over nothing," Thackeray declared, referring to a recent incident where MNS workers assaulted a shopkeeper for not responding in Marathi.

The rally was held days after the controversial assault, which drew criticism from traders in the area. Responding to their protest, Thackeray was unapologetic. “Whatever happened to that person was because of his arrogance. Other shopkeepers called for a bandh. But if shops shut down out of fear, understand this—how long can you keep them closed? If we stop buying, then what?” he asked.

Making his stance on the language issue crystal clear, Thackeray added,“You’ve come here, stay here respectfully, do your work. But if you try to act smart, a slap is definite.”

The MNS chief also took aim at Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, issuing a stern warning over the controversial language policy introduced and later revoked by the state government.

“If Hindi is made compulsory from Classes 1 to 5, we will not hesitate to shut down schools,” he said to loud cheers from the crowd.

Earlier this month, the BJP-led Maharashtra government had to withdraw its decision to make Hindi mandatory in primary schools after strong opposition from various political parties, including MNS and the Shiv Sena (UBT). Raj Thackeray and his estranged cousin, Uddhav Thackeray, were both vocal against the move.

While reiterating that he wasn’t against any language, Raj drew a clear line:

“We are not opposing any language, but we won’t allow any imposition. This is Maharashtra — Marathi comes first.”