MNS Chief Raj Thackeray Calls for Temporary Halt on Marathi Agitation
By: Arvind Jadhav
Mumbai: Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) president Raj Thackeray has asked party members to pause their agitation demanding the use of Marathi in banks and other establishments. This decision comes after Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis warned against taking the law into one’s own hands while pushing for Marathi.
Background of the Agitation
The MNS launched a statewide campaign to promote Marathi in banks, corporations, and other establishments. Thackeray instructed party members to visit banks and insist on transactions being conducted in Marathi, securing assurances from bank managers to install Marathi signage.
Raj Thackeray’s Letter to Party Members
Thackeray congratulated party members for raising their voices on the issue, emphasizing the government’s responsibility to implement Reserve Bank of India (RBI) rules regarding local languages. “The government should make banks and other establishments respect Marathi,” he said.
Government’s Role and Responsibility
Fadnavis warned of strict action against individuals taking the law into their own hands, following complaints of MNS activists intimidating bank staff and demanding exclusive use of Marathi in display boards and official communication.
Next Steps
Raj Thackeray has asked party members to stop the agitation, having created enough awareness about the issue. However, the MNS will continue to push for Marathi usage and take action if necessary, waiting for the government to implement RBI rules and ensure Marathi is respected in banks and establishments.
