Language dispute: Raj Thackeray's warning - If Hindi is imposed from the first class, then we will not hesitate to close the schools

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray on Friday warned Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, saying that if Hindi is made compulsory from class 1 to 5 in Maharashtra, his party will not shy away from closing schools.

Addressing a rally in Mira-Bhayander in Thane district, Raj Thackeray said that the people of Maharashtra should remain vigilant and thwart any attempt by the government to impose Hindi. It is worth noting that recently, the BJP-led state government had withdrawn two government orders making Hindi compulsory in primary classes after massive protests. However, on Thursday, Devendra Fadnavis clarified that the state government will implement the three-language formula, but the committee will decide whether Hindi should be taught from class 1 or 5.

He also referred to the alleged anti-Marathi stance of Morarji Desai and Vallabhbhai Patel after independence. He said that Marathis should insist on speaking in Marathi everywhere in the state and inspire others to speak Marathi as well. He said that attempts are being made to impose Hindi under the guise of Hindutva. Raj also said that he can speak Hindi better than any other politician from Maharashtra because his father was fluent in Hindi, and that he is not against any language but opposed to its imposition.