Maharashtra’s Marathi Language Minister Uday Samant on Wednesday announced a push for stringent policies to protect Marathi speakers, vowing that any attempts to prevent residents from using their mother tongue or practicing cultural traditions would face strict legal consequences. The minister’s declaration follows a controversial incident in Thane’s Dombivali area, where non-Marathi residents of a housing society allegedly opposed a Marathi community’s haldi kumkum ceremony earlier this week.
Speaking at a press conference to detail preparations for the upcoming Vishwa Marathi Sammelan (World Marathi Conference) in Pune, Samant emphasized the need to safeguard linguistic and cultural rights. “Marathi is our mother tongue, and any attempt to intimidate us against speaking it or conducting our traditions like haldi kumkum will not be tolerated. When we interact with people from other states, we respect their languages. The same courtesy must be extended here,” he asserted.
Dombivali Incident Sparks Policy Push
The trigger for Samant’s强硬 stance was Monday’s incident in Dombivali, where tensions flared after objections were raised to a Marathi socio-religious event. While details remain contested, the minister framed the episode as part of a broader pattern of cultural disrespect. “Such acts undermine our identity. We are drafting stricter laws to penalize those who suppress Marathi language or traditions in Maharashtra,” he said.
Hotstar Commentary Controversy
Samant also criticized the absence of Marathi-language commentary on the streaming platform Hotstar during cricket matches, despite its availability in other regional languages. “I have raised this issue with Hotstar authorities. Marathi speakers deserve equal representation,” he said, adding that multiplexes, theaters, and other public platforms would soon receive directives to prioritize Marathi content.
Vishwa Marathi Sammelan: A Platform for Pride
The minister’s remarks came ahead of the Vishwa Marathi Sammelan, set to take place from January 31 to February 2 at Pune’s Fergusson College. The triennial event aims to celebrate Marathi literature, art, and heritage, with Samant calling it a “global showcase of Maharashtra’s cultural legacy.”
Political and Public Reactions
While Samant’s statements resonated with Marathi advocacy groups, critics questioned whether the proposed policies might inadvertently marginalize non-Marathi communities. Opposition leaders urged caution, emphasizing inclusivity in a linguistically diverse state.