Shocking Viral Video: Mumbai Auto Driver Beaten for Refusing to Speak Marathi—Language War Erupts on City Streets!

Mumbai in Uproar After Auto Driver Brutally Beaten for Not Speaking Marathi—Viral Video Sparks Outrage Over Language Intolerance

Mumbai/Palghar – A disturbing video has surfaced from Maharashtra’s Palghar district, showing an auto driver being mercilessly beaten by a mob for refusing to speak Marathi—exposing the ugly side of the ongoing language war in the state.

Beaten for Choosing Hindi and Bhojpuri Over Marathi

The controversy erupted after a video went viral showing the auto driver boldly declaring, “I will speak Hindi, I will speak Bhojpuri, but not Marathi. Do whatever you want.” This statement triggered outrage among supporters of Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena (UBT) and Raj Thackeray’s Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS).

Mob Justice on Busy Road—Forced Apology on Camera

In a second, even more shocking video, the same auto driver is seen surrounded by a group of men and women, who slap and beat him in public. The mob forces him to fold his hands and apologize—not just to “Marathi people,” but also specifically to Balasaheb Thackeray, Uddhav Thackeray, and Raj Thackeray. The driver, visibly terrified, is made to beg for forgiveness for not speaking Marathi.

Political Leaders Defend the Attack

Local Shiv Sena UBT chief Uday Jadhav, present at the scene, justified the mob action, stating, “Anyone who insults Marathi will get a Shiv Sena-style answer in Maharashtra.” Other party members claimed the driver had “learned a lesson” for his disrespect.

No Police Action Despite Viral Video

Despite the video going viral and sparking outrage on social media, Palghar police stated on July 13 that no official complaint had been filed and thus, no case was registered. However, they confirmed they are investigating the incident after seeing the viral footage.

Language Tensions Escalate Across Maharashtra

This is not an isolated incident. Just days earlier, MNS workers allegedly slapped a food stall owner in Thane’s Bhayandar for not speaking Marathi, sparking protests from local traders. Rival political groups have since organized counter-marches in the name of “Marathi identity,” escalating tensions further.

A Dangerous Precedent?

The attack has reignited the debate over language rights and regional identity in Maharashtra. With videos of violence going viral and political leaders justifying mob action, many fear that the city’s cosmopolitan image is under threat.

What Do You Think?

Should people be forced to speak a particular language to earn a living in Mumbai? Are political parties fueling hate for votes? Share your opinion in the comments below!