In a troubling incident near Virar, Mumbai, migrant autorickshaw driver Raju Patwa was assaulted publicly by Shiv Sena (UBT) activists over alleged anti-Marathi remarks. The viral video shook Maharashtra, and after police scrutiny, eight people have now been booked. This article dives deep into the incident, its socio-political context, legal updates, and broader implications.
The Catalyst: Viral Language Clash
On July 13, 2025, a video surfaced showing an exchange between Patwa and passenger Bhavesh near Virar station. Bhavesh asked him in Marathi to drive carefully, but Patwa famously responded:
"Main Hindi bolunga, Bhojpuri bolunga, par Marathi nahi bolunga."
This defiant stance quickly went viral, triggering outrage across social media and pro-Marathi groups.
The Assault: Public Humiliation
Days later, a group allegedly led by Uday Jadhav, Virar’s Shiv Sena (UBT) city chief, found Patwa near Virar West. They physically assaulted him—slapping, beating, and forcing him to apologize both to Bhavesh, his sister, and the people of Maharashtra in Marathi. Multiple videos capturing this public ordeal continue to circulate online.
FIR Filed: Police Act After Delay
Initially, authorities claimed no complaint had been filed, and an FIR was pending. However, by July 13 evening, Virar police had registered a case against eight or nine individuals under charges of rioting and assault. Senior inspector Lalu Tare confirmed suspects are under investigation.
Political Defense: “True Sena Style”
Uday Jadhav unapologetically defended the assault, stating:
"Anyone insulting Marathi language or Maharashtra will get a reply 'in true Shiv Sena style'. It was a befitting lesson."
His justification highlights the political focus on regional linguistic pride.
Linguistic Vigilantism: A Broader Trend
This assault isn’t isolated—similar linguistic vigilantism has escalated:
- July 1: Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) activists slapped a Thane stall owner over refusing to speak Marathi.
- Earlier this month, an auto driver in Mulund was forced to apologize for anti-Marathi comments.
- Back in 2008, attacks on North Indian migrants in Maharashtra shocked the nation.
These incidents reflect ongoing tension between migrant communities and regional nationalist groups in Maharashtra.
Legal Complexities and Rule of Law
- Charges: The accused face Section 147 (rioting) and Section 323 (voluntarily causing hurt), among other provisions.
- Delayed FIR: The initial police inaction sparked concerns over impunity for politically connected vigilantes.
- Rights at Stake: The attack raises questions about migrant workers' constitutional protection, their right to livelihood, and dignity.
Social Reaction: Outrage and Support
- Public backlash: Social media erupted in condemnation, criticising mob justice.
- Civil society: Rights groups and migrant associations are pushing for firm legal action.
- Political voices: Critics argue such vigilantism emboldens cultural policing and undermines civic harmony.
Police Stance and Investigation
Virar police confirm they have:
- Viewed and are verifying video evidence.
- Identified 8–9 suspects in connection with the assault.
- Initiated statements and suspect summons to take the case forward.
Migrant Anxiety and Inclusion
The incident has amplified anxiety among North Indian migrants:
- Many report fear of cultural alienation.
- They face uncertainty when refusing Marathi, even for personal preference.
- Experts warn of widening divisions, urging educational programs and intercultural understanding.
What Lies Ahead?
- Judicial oversight: Courts may be petitioned to ensure transparent prosecution.
- Preventive measures: Police might step up monitoring of regionalist activists.
- Political response: State legislators could revisit policy on linguistic freedom and hate crime deterrence.
FAQs (Expanded)
1. Who is Raju Patwa?
Raju Patwa is a migrant autorickshaw driver from Uttar Pradesh, based in Virar, Palghar, Mumbai.
2. What did he say?
He refused to speak Marathi, insisting on Hindi or Bhojpuri—a statement viewed as offensive.
3. How did the public respond?
A group led by Uday Jadhav tracked him, assaulted him publicly, and forced an apology in Marathi.
4. Has legal action been taken?
Yes, an FIR against eight suspects was filed on July 13 under rioting and assault charges.
5. Were the accused arrested?
Police have booked them; whether arrests occurred is still under investigation.
6. What charges are applicable?
Sections include rioting (IPC 147), voluntarily causing hurt (IPC 323), and possibly criminal intimidation.
7. Is this part of a wider pattern?
Yes—multiple incidents across Maharashtra show rising linguistic vigilantism.
8. What role did political groups play?
Activists from Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS led the mob action, reinforcing language policing.
9. How is the government responding?
Police have acted slower than public expectation, highlighting tension between law enforcement and cultural politics.
10. What should migrants do?
Maintain awareness, document instances of hostility, and engage with NGOs or local legal aid resources.
Conclusion
The assault on Raju Patwa typifies the unsettling rise of linguistic vigilantism in Maharashtra, where defiance of Marathi is met with violence and public humiliation. While the FIR is a positive step, the event underscores the urgent need for coherent rule of law, inclusive dialogue, and migrant protections. In an India of diverse languages, public safety cannot hinge on regional sentiments—yet it appears their influence is ironically regressing societal values.
Report by Toofan Express