Language row: Shopkeeper assaulted over ‘anti-Marathi’ WhatsApp status in Mumbai's Vikhroli; forced to apologise

NEW DELHI: A shopkeeper in Mumbai’s Vikhroli area was assaulted allegedly by members of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) after he reportedly posted a WhatsApp status that was seen as “anti-Marathi.” According to reports, the man was confronted outside his shop by a group of MNS workers. He was physically assaulted and then made to apologise publicly.

A video of the incident has since surfaced online, showing the man being made to hold his ears and fold his hands while apologising on camera. MNS workers in the clip can be heard warning others not to disrespect the Marathi language or culture.