Shiv Sena (UBT) Workers Assault Migrant Rickshaw Driver in Palghar Over Language Dispute

Mumbai : A shocking incident from Palghar district has surfaced online showing activists of Shiv Sena (UBT) allegedly assaulting a migrant rickshaw driver for refusing to speak Marathi. The incident took place near Virar railway station and has ignited strong reactions on social media.
According to reports, the driver was stopped by party workers who questioned him for not communicating in Marathi. When he insisted on speaking only in Hindi and Bhojpuri, an argument broke out, which soon turned violent. In the viral video, he can be heard saying, “I will speak Hindi and Bhojpuri, not Marathi,” before being physically attacked by the group.
The confrontation has raised serious concerns about rising linguistic intolerance in the state. Many have condemned the incident, calling it an act of vigilantism and demanding strict action against those involved.
This is not the first such case in Maharashtra. Earlier this month, a similar incident occurred in Thane where a food stall owner was slapped by MNS workers for not using Marathi while interacting with customers.
So far, Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders have not issued any official statement regarding the Palghar incident. Authorities are expected to investigate the matter further.