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As civic elections draw closer in Maharashtra, the debate over Marathi versus Hindi has once again stirred political tensions. Leaders from both the ruling and opposition camps are trading sharp barbs, with the latest salvo coming from Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde in response to remarks made by Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray.

Speaking to ANI, Shinde accused the opposition of hypocrisy, stating that when they were in power, they had themselves implemented the three-language policy—Marathi, English, and Hindi—based on the recommendations of the Raghunath Mashelkar Committee.

“Changed Role After Losing Power”: Shinde Targets Opposition

“When they were in government, they enforced this language policy. Now that they’re out of power, their stance has suddenly changed,” Shinde said, calling it a clear case of double standards. “Such leaders have no right to demand the resignation of Minister Dada Bhuse,” he added.

Shinde also highlighted that the current government has made Marathi compulsory in schools, while Hindi has not been mandated. He pointed out that opposition leaders themselves have previously endorsed multilingual learning for children.

On the statement of Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray, Maharashtra Dy CM Eknath Shinde says, "...The then Chief Minister of Maharashtra had made mandatory the teaching of three languages – Marathi, English, and Hindi which was recommended by the Raghunath Mashelkar Committee...When they were in power their opinion was different and now as they are not in power, they are responding differently...The people who practise double faced politics have no right to demand the resignation of Minister Dada Bhuse...Our government made Marathi mandatory in schools...

#WATCH | Nagpur | On the statement of Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray, Maharashtra Dy CM Eknath Shinde says, "...The then Chief Minister of Maharashtra had made mandatory the teaching of three languages – Marathi, English, and Hindi which was recommended by the Raghunath… pic.twitter.com/yMIykNvcK4

— ANI (@ANI) June 28, 2025

Marathi Given Priority, No Place for Ego: Shinde

The Deputy CM emphasized that the state government is engaging in dialogue with scholars and stakeholders on the language issue. “We have no ego in this matter. The Chief Minister and all of us will sit together and take a collective decision,” he said.

Shinde also noted that the government has organized multiple editions of the Vishwa Marathi Sammelan and is building the Marathi Bhasha Bhavan to promote the language.

Public Sees Through Political Gimmicks, Says Shinde

In a parting shot, Shinde accused opposition leaders of altering their narrative depending on whether they’re in power. “Their roles change with their position. But the public is well aware of these political games—and this time, it won’t work,” he asserted.