Auto Driver Attacked After Viral Language Dispute in Maharashtra

A disturbing incident unfolded in Palghar, Maharashtra, where a migrant auto-rickshaw driver was publicly assaulted after a video of a language dispute went viral on social media. The attackers were identified as supporters of Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena (UBT) and Raj Thackeray’s Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS).

The Viral Video that Sparked the Incident

The incident stemmed from a confrontation at Virar station between a migrant from Uttar Pradesh named Bhavesh Padolia and the auto-rickshaw driver, also a migrant. The argument, apparently over the use of Marathi language, was captured on video and quickly spread across social media platforms.

Impact on Migrant Community

This incident highlights the ongoing sensitivities surrounding language and regional identity in Maharashtra and the vulnerability of migrant workers. The attack has raised concerns about the safety and security of migrants in the state.