Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Jul 8: Amid a growing language controversy in Maharashtra, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis distanced himself from BJP MP Nishikant Dubey’s controversial remarks, saying, “What he said is not right.” Fadnavis clarified that the Godda MP was referring to an organisation and not the Marathi community, while also stressing the community’s “incomparable” contribution to India’s freedom struggle.

Dubey had triggered outrage by slamming MNS chief Raj Thackeray over the recent ‘slapgate’ episode in Mumbai, where MNS workers thrashed a shopkeeper for refusing to speak Marathi. Thackeray had backed the incident, asking party workers to “beat those who don’t speak Marathi” but not film it.

Responding to this, Dubey said, “You’re surviving on our money. What kind of industries do you have? We have the mines, you don’t. All semiconductor refineries are in Gujarat.” He even challenged Raj Thackeray to step outside Maharashtra: “Come to Bihar, UP or Tamil Nadu if you’re such a boss. You’ll be beaten mercilessly.”

His statements sparked anger, especially as they targeted economic contributions and regional identity. Dubey later attempted to dial down the rhetoric, claiming respect for Maharashtra and its icons like Chhatrapati Shivaji, Tatya Tope, and Gopal Krishna Gokhale.

Fadnavis tried to cool tempers by reiterating, “Marathis kept the spirit of independence alive even during foreign invasions. Such remarks lead to unnecessary divisions.”

Meanwhile, the BJP has accused the Thackeray cousins Raj and Uddhav of reviving the language debate ahead of the crucial BMC elections, calling it a ‘cheap political stunt.’

Uddhav Thackeray hit back sharply, accusing the BJP of a ‘divide and rule policy’ and denying any hatred toward other languages. “I oppose the imposition of any language by force,” he said, noting the BJP's discomfort over the massive turnout at his recent rally in Mumbai.