Fadnavis Urges Unity as Maharashtra Language Row Sparks Debate

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis called for unity amidst growing tensions over a language row, affirming there is no conflict between Marathi and Hindi-speaking communities. At a press conference, Fadnavis advised against fueling the debate, suggesting some parties may intentionally provoke these disputes.

The Chief Minister highlighted Mumbai's historical coexistence of diverse communities, emphasizing the absence of controversy between Marathi and non-Marathi residents. Urging people to avoid the "trap" of division, he underscored the city's legacy as a melting pot of cultures.

This comes after BJP MP Nishikant Dubey's remarks criticizing violence against Hindi speakers and a now-withdrawn three-language policy by the state. Initially mandated for schools, the introduction of Hindi drew backlash and was retracted following public outcry. The controversy arose from a government resolution that initially made Hindi compulsory but was later made optional and ultimately scrapped.

(With inputs from agencies.)