Uddhav Thackeray Responds to BJP MP's Provocative Remarks Amid Language Controversy in Maharashtra
In Maharashtra, Uddhav Thackeray has hit back at BJP MP Nishikant Dubey's aggressive remarks amid a language dispute. Thackeray accused the BJP of trying to create divisions for political gain and emphasized the need for harmony. Dubey's challenge to the Thackeray brothers to confront Hindi speakers in other states has intensified the ongoing tensions. This article delves into the heated exchanges and the implications for Maharashtra's political landscape.
| Jul 8, 2025, 12:14 IST
Uddhav Thackeray's Strong Retort
In the midst of an ongoing language dispute in Maharashtra, Uddhav Thackeray, a leader of the Shiv Sena (UBT), has sharply criticized BJP MP Nishikant Dubey's comments about physically assaulting him. Thackeray accused Dubey of attempting to sow discord among the people and claimed that the BJP is trying to gain political advantage through a strategy of divide and rule. This response from the Shiv Sena leader came after Dubey's aggressive remarks aimed at the Thackeray brothers, where he challenged Raj Thackeray to come out of Maharashtra, stating, "We will beat you up."
During a conversation with reporters, Uddhav stated that the BJP's approach has always been to create divisions for political gain, a tactic he believes is losing its relevance. He expressed understanding of the BJP's unease following the success of their rally in Mumbai on Saturday. In response to Dubey's comments, Uddhav remarked, "Such 'hyenas' are trying to disrupt peace and harmony in the state. The only agenda of these BJP leaders is to incite the public. We are not against any language, but we oppose the use of force to impose any language." He also criticized Maharashtra Minister Ashish Shelar for comparing recent violence against non-Marathi speakers to the Pulwama terror attack.
BJP MP Nishikant Dubey recently launched a fierce attack on Raj Thackeray, the leader of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), and Uddhav Thackeray, in light of violent incidents targeting Hindi speakers in Maharashtra. He challenged them to try similar actions in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, or Tamil Nadu, referencing the attacks on North Indians in Maharashtra. Dubey stated, "Come to Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, or Tamil Nadu. People will beat you up."
Speaking to a news agency, Dubey remarked, "You are living off our resources. What kind of industries do you have? If you are so bold to attack Hindi speakers, then you should also confront those who speak Urdu, Tamil, and Telugu. If you consider yourselves 'big bosses', come out of Maharashtra and face us in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, or Tamil Nadu - 'we will beat you up.' He emphasized that they respect all Marathi people and those who fought for India's independence.