Eknath Shinde Condemns Repression Against Marathi Conference in Karnataka

By A Staff Reporter

Mumbai: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has strongly condemned the recent arrests in Karnataka following a Marathi-speaking conference organized by the Marathi Ekikaran Samiti. Speaking out against what he described as a "cycle of repression," Shinde criticized the Karnataka government's actions, which resulted in the detention of several individuals, including an MLA, a mayor, and over 100 Marathi-speaking participants.

"Marathi-speaking people in Karnataka had organized a conference, and in this country, anyone can live anywhere, go anywhere, and organize such events. However, the Karnataka government unleashed a cycle of repression, arresting not only the MLA and mayor but also over 100 Marathi-speaking brothers and sisters of the Marathi Ekikaran Samiti," Shinde said. "I condemn this action."

Shinde also addressed the growing controversy surrounding the statue of Veer Savarkar, a prominent freedom fighter. Referring to those attempting to remove his statue, Shinde asserted, "Veer Savarkar, who sacrificed his life for the country, should be respected. I condemn those who are trying to remove his statue."

The Deputy Chief Minister's statement reflects Maharashtra's firm stance on these issues. "Our position is clear: the people of Maharashtra and Karnataka will teach a lesson to the Karnataka government for resorting to such repression," Shinde concluded, signaling a determined pushback against what he perceives as injustice toward the Marathi community.

The incident has sparked widespread reactions, with many from Maharashtra voicing their support for the Marathi Ekikaran Samiti and condemning the Karnataka government’s actions, further straining ties between the two states.