MNS Workers Assault Shopkeeper Over Anti Marathi WhatsApp Status in Mumbai

Anti Marathi WhatsApp Status Sparks Violence in Mumbai – Shopkeeper Assaulted by MNS Workers

A regular day at Mumbai’s Vikhroli market turned into a scene of chaos and controversy when a Marwadi shopkeeper was brutally assaulted — not for any crime, but over something he posted on WhatsApp. Yes, just a status update. This recent incident involving the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has once again put the spotlight on the recurring conflict between regional pride and communal harmony.

The victim, Premsingh Devda, who owns Lucky Medical Shop, found himself surrounded by angry MNS workers who accused him of disrespecting the Marathi Manoos — the term used to describe Marathi-speaking people. His alleged crime? Posting a WhatsApp status that read:

“Dekh liya Rajasthani ka power. Hum Marwari hamare saamne kisi ki nahi chalti.”
(Translation: Witnessed the power of a Rajasthani. No one can stand before us Marwaris.)

That single line ignited outrage.

Assault Captured on Camera

In a video now making rounds on social media, a group of MNS workers are seen confronting Devda right outside his store. The footage shows them slapping him, berating him, and forcing him to fold his hands and hold his ears in a plea for forgiveness. A public apology was demanded — not just to the people present but to the entire Marathi community.

The MNS workers didn’t stop there. They allegedly threatened the locals, warning them not to purchase anything from shopkeepers who “insult the Marathi language or culture.” It was more than just a confrontation — it became a loud message to others who might attempt to do the same.

This Wasn’t the First Time

Surprisingly, this wasn’t an isolated incident. The assault on Devda came just days after MNS workers were filmed attacking a food stall owner in Thane for not conversing in Marathi. The Thane workers were briefly arrested but granted bail within hours.

Around the same time, another shopkeeper at Mira Road and even an autorickshaw driver faced violence for similar reasons — for simply not using the Marathi language in their daily conversations.

Raj Thackeray’s Silent Approval?

While Raj Thackeray, the chief of MNS, had earlier advised his party workers not to record videos while “taking action” against those who disrespect Marathi, this hasn’t deterred members of his party from continuing such behavior.

Interestingly, this incident happened just after Thackeray shared a stage with cousin and Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray for the first time in nearly two decades. Their joint rally, titled ‘Awaj Marathicha’ (Voice of the Marathi people), celebrated the rollback of Hindi as an optional third language in Maharashtra schools.

It seems that the push for preserving the Marathi identity is not just being led on the political stage — it’s spilling onto the streets as well.

Also read ➡️ Marathi In Madrasas Remark By Nitesh Rane Sparks Political Outrage Across Maharashtra

Government’s Response

Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also weighed in, making it clear that while the Marathi language should be respected, violence in its name will not be tolerated.

“We respect Marathi, but violence in its name won’t be accepted. Strict action will be taken against those resorting to violence. No language in India will be allowed to be disrespected,” said Fadnavis during a media interaction.

Yet, despite such statements, the assaults continue, raising questions about the effectiveness of government control over regional extremism.

Police Involvement and Rising Concerns

After the assault, the shopkeeper was taken to the local police station where he had to once again apologise. This police involvement has sparked further criticism — was it a protective move, or another form of public humiliation?

Meanwhile, incidents continue to pile up. Just yesterday, MNS workers were detained in Nagpur after creating a scene at a bank, demanding that an FIR originally written in Marathi be translated to Hindi for settlement purposes. Their protest wasn’t about justice — it was about language.

In another political twist, BJP leader and Maharashtra minister Nitesh Rane recently demanded that Marathi be introduced in madrasas instead of Urdu, even suggesting that the Islamic call to prayer — azaan — be conducted in Marathi.

What This Means for Mumbai

Mumbai has always been known for its cosmopolitan culture — a melting pot of communities, languages, and traditions. But incidents like this expose a deeper fracture that threatens to disrupt that harmony. The Anti Marathi WhatsApp Status controversy might seem small, but it reflects a bigger issue — the growing tensions between regional identity and inclusivity.

The public reaction has been mixed. While many agree that respect for local culture is essential, using violence and intimidation to enforce it crosses the line. And as long as political parties continue to fan the flames in the name of linguistic pride, ordinary citizens — like shopkeeper Premsingh Devda — will be caught in the crossfire.

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