MNS Workers Allegedly Assault Shopkeeper in Mumbai Over WhatsApp Status, Force Apology

In yet another incident linked to language-related tensions in Maharashtra, workers of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) allegedly assaulted a Marwadi shopkeeper in Vikhroli, Mumbai, over a WhatsApp status that they claimed insulted the Marathi community.

According to videos circulating on social media, a group of MNS workers surrounded the shopkeeper outside his store, confronting him about the post. The group allegedly physically assaulted the man and forced him to issue a public apology, during which he was seen holding his ears and folding his hands.

In the footage, the MNS workers are heard warning others not to disrespect the Marathi language and culture, and urging locals to boycott shops owned by individuals who, in their words, “insult Marathi people.”

Pattern of Language-Linked Violence

This incident is the latest in a series of similar actions allegedly carried out by MNS workers in recent days. In Thane, party members were caught on camera assaulting a food stall owner for not speaking in Marathi. They were arrested but granted bail within hours. Some of the assailants were seen wearing scarves bearing the MNS symbol.

Similar cases were reported in Mira Road, where a shopkeeper was attacked, and in another instance, an autorickshaw driver was allegedly assaulted for refusing to speak Marathi.

Political Reactions and Public Outrage

MNS chief Raj Thackeray, during a joint rally with his cousin and Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray, had stated that party workers should refrain from filming such incidents, but did not condemn the actions themselves.

Meanwhile, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis addressed the issue, stating:

“We respect Marathi, but violence in its name will not be tolerated. Strict action will be taken against those who indulge in such acts. No language in India should be disrespected.”

The series of incidents has reignited a broader debate around linguistic identity, freedom of expression, and vigilantism in Maharashtra. Police investigations are underway in connection with the assaults, though no official statement has yet been made about the Vikhroli case.