Jan Suraaj founder and political strategist Prashant Kishor launched a blistering attack on Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray, calling him out for inciting attacks on migrant workers amid the escalating language row in Maharashtra.
In an interview to ANI, Kishor said, "This country doesn't belong to Raj Thackeray's father. These are all lumpen elements. They are acting like tigers in their home ... you can abuse anyone sitting at home. This shows their upbringing and culture."
Kishor was responding to the spate of attacks by MNS workers on shopkeepers and vendors from Hindi-speaking states like Bihar and Uttar Pradesh ahead of the crucial Mumbai civic polls.
The attacks — against those not speaking in Marathi — have triggered widespread condemnation from several political parties, including BJP.
"Slapping someone in your own house, especially poor people who are there for work... there is no bravery in this," Kishor said, accusing MNS of preying on the vulnerable to consolidate votes.
'No outcome if Thackerays unite'
Asked about the recent show of unity between Raj Thackeray and cousin Uddhav Thackeray, Kishor said dismissively: "It doesn't matter if two brothers are together or four brothers are together. Weren't they together before? What did they accomplish?"
He also held the BJP-led Maharashtra government responsible for the current situation, pointing out that the Congress shares the blame as an ally of Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena (UBT).
Kishor added that when he had helped Shiv Sena in 2020, it was on the condition that Hindi-speaking migrants would not be targeted. "You can check that from 2020 till the recent incidents, not a single Shiv Sainik targeted those from Hindi-speaking states. This has started again because of the Mumbai municipal corporation election. And the battle is for Marathi votes. Thus, they are targeting the poor Hindi-speaking people from Bihar."
'Try picking on someone your own size'
Doubling down on his criticism, Kishor questioned the morality of those orchestrating attacks in the name of protecting language and culture. "These people believe in Hindu religion and Sanatan dharma. Beating up helpless and poor people who have come to your state — what kind of religion is this? If you are so powerful, then try targeting those who are strong," he said.
Referring to Uddhav Thackeray's past association with him, Kishor said, "And if you have such a big issue with people from Bihar, then why did you come to seek my help. There are photos of this ... do I speak Marathi? I am also from Bihar."
He slammed the attacks as outright hooliganism: "Targeting those who are weaker than you is just plain hooliganism, nothing else."
Language politics takes centre stage
The row over the use of Marathi has turned into a major flashpoint in Maharashtra, with MNS workers accused of attacking vendors and shopkeepers from northern India across Mumbai and surrounding areas.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, while distancing his party from the violence, warned that "those resorting to violence over the Hindi language will face legal action."
On his part, Raj Thackeray has asked MNS workers not to act without provocation.
However, the issue of Marathi identity and the "imposition" of Hindi is believed to be a catalyst for reuniting Uddhav and Raj Thackeray after almost 20 years on Saturday at a joint "victory" rally to celebrate the government's decision to scrap the GRs under the three-language policy.
(With inputs from agencies)
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