Breaking News: Marathi vs Hindi turns communal, Nitesh Rane’s remarks spark outrage | ABP NEWS

BJP MLA Nitesh Rane has triggered a fresh controversy by turning the ongoing Marathi vs Hindi language debate in Maharashtra into a communal Hindu-Muslim issue. Responding to the recent assault on a shopkeeper in Mira Road—allegedly for not speaking Marathi—Rane condemn the incident. He claimed that any insult to the Marathi language is an attack on Hindutva and warned that such actions would face consequences from a “Hindutva-driven government.” Rane’s statement—“We will open the third eye of our government”—is being interpreted as a veiled threat to those who do not align with the Marathi identity. Critics argue that instead of promoting linguistic harmony, Rane is exploiting religious and regional sentiments for political gain. The controversy follows a viral video showing MNS workers beating a sweet shop owner for not using Marathi. Despite clear footage, the FIR names the accused as “unknown,” exposing the apparent political pressure on the police. As the Maharashtra Assembly’s monsoon session continues, the silence of opposition parties is glaring. Observers point out that such symbolic FIRs and political hesitancy only embolden fringe elements, potentially worsening communal and regional divides in the state.