Uddhav Thackeray Slams ‘Forced’ Three-Language Policy, Vows To Defend Marathi Identity

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray on Friday strongly opposed any attempt by the Maharashtra government to enforce a three-language policy in the state, particularly criticizing what he called the "forced imposition of Hindi" in Marathi and English medium schools.

“We will not tolerate the forced implementation of a three-language policy in Maharashtra,” Thackeray declared during a media interaction, making it clear that his party would resist any move perceived as an attack on Marathi identity.

Thackeray’s remarks come amid a growing language row in the state, where concerns have been raised over Hindi being introduced compulsorily in non-Hindi medium schools. The issue has stirred cultural and political sensitivities, particularly among Marathi-speaking citizens and opposition parties.

Commenting on the clash between NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) MLA Jitendra Awhad and BJP MLA Gopichand Padalkar in the assembly lobby while the House was in session, Thackeray said, “The image of Maharashtra has gone down in the country after that incident.”

He criticized the ruling BJP-led Mahayuti government for what he described as deteriorating standards of conduct among those in power. “The behavior of those in authority is bringing shame to the dignity of the state,” he said.

Asked about comparisons being made between the violent scenes in the Assembly and incidents of lawlessness in other states, Thackeray responded carefully: “I won’t say that such scuffles are bringing a UP-Bihar culture to Maharashtra. There are good people in those states too. We should not malign entire states because of a few bad elements.”

Uddhav Thackeray also addressed his joint appearance with MNS chief and cousin Raj Thackeray on a common platform after nearly two decades. Both leaders united over the Marathi language issue—a move seen as symbolically significant in Maharashtra’s evolving political landscape.

“This is the first time in 20 years that we’ve come together on the same platform, and it’s for the cause of Marathi. As I’ve said before, we’ve come together to stay united. On the Marathi issue, we will remain together,” Uddhav said.

However, when asked about a potential political alliance with Raj Thackeray, the Shiv Sena (UBT) leader said no elections have been declared yet, and political discussions would be held at the appropriate time.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis took a jibe at the Thackerays during his reply last week in the state assembly. He said, "Some people gave me a book titled Hindi Shakti Havich Kashala?. I want to tell them that they should have also attached the documents where they themselves approved the three-language policy from Standard 1 to Standard 12. The former Chief Minister (Uddhav Thackeray) approved the committee report, signed the minutes of the cabinet meeting, and is now telling others not to impose Hindi."

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