Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut has launched a wide-ranging attack addressing RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat's upcoming trip to New York, democratic freedoms, and the debate surrounding mandatory regional language skills for auto-rickshaw operators. Speaking to journalists, Raut contrasted freedom of expression in the United States with ongoing friction in India, while criticizing political decisions linked to upcoming elections in Uttar Pradesh. Meanwhile, Shiv Sena leader Shaina NC and BJP MLA Sanjay Upadhyay offered their perspectives on Marathi language identity and the training provided to transport workers in Mumbai.
RSS Chief's New York Trip and Freedom of Speech Concerns
Highlighting the upcoming international visit of RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, Sanjay Raut stated that the RSS leader is traveling to New York following an official invitation from the United States. Raut described the U.S. as a robust democracy where freedom of speech is recognized and protected. In contrast, he claimed that India is currently witnessing conflicts over the freedom to express views, pointing to international discussions surrounding the use of pellet guns against youth.
Raut emphasized that democratic governance requires providing every citizen with the fundamental freedom to voice their opinions without confrontation or suppression.
UP Elections, Auto Drivers, and Regional Language Requirements
Turning his focus to transport policies, Sanjay Raut brought up the upcoming elections in Uttar Pradesh and noted that Amit Shah, sitting in Delhi, heads the party of the Transport Minister. Raut claimed that because elections are approaching in Uttar Pradesh, deadlines of three months are being issued at a time from Delhi. He argued that logical language requirements must apply based on the state where transport services operate.
Illustrating his point with daily scenarios, Raut stressed that an auto-rickshaw driver operating in Uttar Pradesh must know Hindi. He questioned how daily commute would function if a driver in UP spoke Kannada or Punjabi instead. Similarly, he noted that anyone driving an auto-rickshaw in Bengal must be able to speak Bengali.
Maharashtra Transport Ministry and Directives from Delhi
Criticizing the local administration, Sanjay Raut alleged that Maharashtra's Transport Minister frequently backs down on key decisions. According to Raut, whenever a message arrives from Delhi, the state transport minister steps back. Raut asserted that this issue should not be framed as a dispute between states or a mere language conflict, but rather as an issue of consistent governance and local policy enforcement.
Marathi Pride and Training Programs for 1.5 Lakh Drivers
Addressing the language debate from the ruling side, Shiv Sena leader Shaina NC asserted that there can be no compromise regarding Marathi pride, Marathi honor, and the Marathi language. She emphasized that any service provider interacting with passengers must possess the capability to communicate effectively in Marathi.
Shaina NC highlighted past government initiatives, noting that respected leader Eknath Shinde and Shiv Sena organized a one-month free Marathi language course for 1.5 lakh taxi drivers. She added that drivers who completed the training were issued formal certificates, ensuring they gained the necessary linguistic skills to serve commuters.
BJP MLA Defends Hardworking Drivers Passing Language Tests
Weighing in on the matter, BJP MLA Sanjay Upadhyay praised auto-rickshaw drivers for their hard work and dedication on Mumbai roads. He noted that these drivers earn their livelihood through grueling labor while serving the public. Upadhyay pointed out that when the government mandated a working knowledge of Marathi, auto drivers proactively learned the language and successfully passed the required examinations.
Upadhyay concluded that having cleared the exams, these drivers are now able to converse fluently without fear or hesitation, allowing them to operate their vehicles and serve commuters across Mumbai with confidence.
