Shiv Sena UBT workers thrash auto driver over 'Marathi' language row, video goes viral

Shiv Sena (UBT) workers allegedly thrashed an autorickshaw driver in Maharashtra's Palghar over 'anti-Marathi' remarks. The videos of the assault went viral on social media. 

A local functionary of the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) claimed that the auto driver was taught a lesson for insulting the Marathi language and warned people that anyone who disrespects the language will be given a reply in "true Shiv Sena style", PTI reported. 

The auto driver who hails from Uttar Pradesh allegedly made derogatory remarks against the Marathi language, Maharashtra and Marathi icons. This happened during an altercation with a scooter rider who insisted that he speak in Marathi, the autorickshaw driver refused to do so and said he would only speak in Hindi or Bhojpuri.

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This triggered a group of Shiv Sena (UBT) workers, who assaulted him and made him apologise for his behaviour. "If anyone dares to insult the Marathi language, Maharashtra, or Marathi people, they will get a reply in the true Shiv Sena style. We will not sit silent," said Shiv Sena (UBT) Virar city chief Uday Jadhav. 

Police officials confirmed the incident,  but said no formal complaint has been received so far, hence no case has been registered yet. 

Recently, Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis had to withdraw two government resolutions on the three-language policy in schools and teaching of Hindi from Class I, following the protest by the opposition in the state. 

Meanwhile, Shiv Sena UBT chief Uddhav Thackeray said that he and MNS chief Raj Thackeray have come together on the issue of Marathi, Mumbai and Maharashtra and they will continue to be together in the future also.

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