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Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray on Thursday dismissed claims of widespread "Hindi imposition" in Maharashtra, saying isolated incidents should not be sensationalised and highlighting Mumbai's tradition of inclusivity.
Speaking at the India Today Conclave, Thackeray said, "You can't control every sporadic incident, when someone gets angry at someone else over abuse. There will be a natural reaction, if at all. It's a sporadic reaction." Questioning the selective focus of public discourse, he added, "Why don't you show the incidents where people from Mumbai or Marathi people have been denied a house because they are non-vegetarians? They're told that they're 'dirty' because they eat meat and fish." Highlighting Mumbai's inclusive character, Thackeray said the city has always welcomed people from across India. "People come here with dreams and become big. There is no problem in that. And that is not despite Shiv Sena being here. That is because the Shiv Sena (UBT) has always been here supporting those dreams," he stated. Framing the issue as one of cultural preservation, he concluded, "This is about protecting the people of Maharashtra, the astitwa (existence) of Mumbai and Maharashtra, against the forces trying to demolish it." On the allegation of being a Nepo Kid, "I am very proud to have the bloodline of my family and the value it holds. My great-grandfather fought against untouchability, child marriage, casteism and all sorts of social evils. My grandfather fought for the nation and this state, and now my father is fighting for its principles. I am very proud of what I am. Out of all my cousins who have not chosen to pursue a career in politics, I have always aspired to be in politics." On being asked about the recent remarks of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in the backdrop of the Nepal protest, Thackeray linked such incidents to broader issues in the country, including "unemployment, polarisation, [and] inequality." (ANI)
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