Marathi-Gujarati Tensions Flare in Mumbai’s Ghatkopar Over Non-Vegetarian Food Row
Mumbai witnessed a fresh flare-up of cultural tensions on Wednesday when Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) workers confronted residents of a Ghatkopar housing society over alleged derogatory remarks directed at Marathi-speaking families for consuming non-vegetarian food. The incident prompted police intervention, though no formal complaint was lodged.
A video circulating on social media shows MNS leader Raj Parte accusing certain Gujarati residents of the society of labeling Marathi families as “dirty” due to their dietary preferences. Parte is heard stating, “Anybody can live in Mumbai and work here, but we will not tolerate such things… how can others dictate what they should eat?”
An eyewitness reported that the confrontation escalated, leading residents to alert Ghatkopar Police, who intervened to defuse the situation. Police officials advised residents against ill-treating their neighbors and warned of legal consequences for any discriminatory behavior.
State IT and Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar condemned the incident, emphasizing that any form of disrespect based on language or culture is unacceptable. “No one should commit the sin of looking down upon Marathi-speaking people, their language, and their culture,” Shelar stated, reinforcing the government’s stance on preserving Marathi heritage.
This incident is not isolated; both the MNS and the undivided Shiv Sena have previously alleged that Marathi-speaking individuals face challenges in certain housing societies, particularly concerning dietary habits. The MNS has been vocal about promoting Marathi language and culture, especially in public spaces and institutions
As Mumbai prepares for upcoming civic elections, cultural and linguistic issues are likely to remain at the forefront of political discourse. Authorities have urged residents to maintain communal harmony and respect individual choices to ensure peaceful coexistence in the city.
