Minister Nitesh Rane Sparks Row Over Thane Assault, Questions Selective Language Vigilantism

By A Staff Reporter

Mumbai: Maharashtra minister Nitesh Rane has stirred controversy with his provocative remarks following the circulation of a viral video from Thane, where a shop owner was allegedly assaulted for refusing to converse in Marathi. The incident has sparked outrage over linguistic chauvinism and selective enforcement of identity politics.

Reacting to the video, Rane said, “A Hindu was beaten up for not speaking Marathi. If they have the courage, go to Null Bazaar, Mohammed Ali Road and tell people there to speak Marathi.” His remarks appeared to accuse vigilantes of targeting only certain communities, while avoiding confrontation with others.

“They don't have the courage to go there and beat up those cap-wearers. Do Javed Akhtar and Aamir Khan speak in Marathi? Why beat up a poor Hindu?” Rane added, further escalating tensions with his communal undertone.