MNS Workers Assault Marwadi Shopkeeper in Vikroli Over Whatsapp Post Against Marathi

A Vikroli-based shopkeeper was physically assaulted by members of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) after he allegedly posted a WhatsApp status perceived as insulting Marathi-speaking people. The incident, which occurred outside his shop in Mumbai’s Vikroli area, has ignited fresh debate on linguistic tolerance and respect for diversity in Maharashtra.
Eyewitness accounts and widely circulated video footage show multiple MNS workers confronting the shopkeeper, who belongs to the Marwadi community. The men are seen thrashing him and coercing him into holding his ears and publicly apologising for his WhatsApp post, which they claimed hurt the sentiments of the ‘Marathi Manoos’. The assailants warned others in the community against disrespecting the Marathi language and culture, and urged locals to boycott businesses owned by those accused of similar acts.
In the viral video, several attackers can be identified wearing MNS-branded scarves, openly issuing warnings. Social media users strongly reacted to the footage, with hashtags related to linguistic violence and minority safety trending on X (formerly Twitter). Maharashtra Police have registered an FIR. Senior officers confirmed that further investigation and arrests are likely if culpability is established.
The incident comes just days after another controversial episode in Thane, where MNS activists allegedly assaulted a food stall owner for not speaking Marathi. The accused were promptly arrested but released on bail within hours, raising concerns over the effectiveness of deterrent measures.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis addressed the rising tension, stating, “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.” He added that police action had been swift and assured the public that no individual or group would be allowed to create language-based discord in the state.
Fadnavis urged restraint, stressing that pride in Marathi language should not result in injustice to speakers of other languages. He questioned the logic of tolerating English but creating disputes over Hindi or other Indian languages, affirming that the government would crack down on anyone taking the law into their own hands.