MNS Sparks Controversy Over Language Signboards on Mumbai-Ahmedabad Highway

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) workers escalated language tensions by forcibly removing Gujarati signboards from several hotels along the Mumbai-Ahmedabad highway in the districts of Thane and Palghar, Maharashtra. Their demand for Marathi signage comes amid ongoing language debates within the state.

The incident occurred shortly after a statewide dispute erupted over the imposition of Hindi as a compulsory language in primary schools. MNS activists dismantled the signboards near Haloli village, according to local sources. In response, some hotel proprietors covered their existing signage with black cloth to avoid confrontation.

This agitation echoes previous actions by the MNS, who have also opposed English signboards. They argue that state laws mandate businesses to display Marathi text prominently. Local authorities reported no official complaints from hotel owners or any new developments following the MNS's actions.

(With inputs from agencies.)