Mumbai: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday dismissed the perception of any tension between Marathi and non-Marathi communities in the state, stating that no injustice is being done to either group. He also urged BJP MP Nishikant Dubey to refrain from commenting on the sensitive language issue, calling it a politically motivated controversy.
“There is no Marathi versus non-Marathi conflict in Maharashtra. No one is being treated unfairly. Both Marathi and non-Marathi-speaking people in the state will eventually teach a lesson to those leaders who are trying to divide them,” Fadnavis said while speaking to the media.
The Chief Minister’s remarks came in response to a question about controversial statements made last month by BJP Lok Sabha MP Nishikant Dubey regarding the ongoing language debate in the state. Advising his party colleague to exercise restraint, Fadnavis said the Jharkhand MP should avoid wading into an issue that is deliberately being stirred for political reasons.
Discussion on Elephant Shift and Pigeon Feeding Ban
Fadnavis also addressed two other contentious matters — protests in Kolhapur over the transfer of a female elephant to a wildlife rehabilitation centre in Gujarat, and concerns over a ban on pigeon feeding at 'Kabutarkhanas' in Mumbai following a directive from the Bombay High Court.
“I have called a meeting on Tuesday to discuss both issues. We will work towards finding amicable solutions while respecting court decisions and public sentiments,” he said.
Action Against Fraud in Ladki Bahin Yojana
On the matter of fraudulent claims under the 'Ladki Bahin Yojana', a state welfare scheme for women from low-income backgrounds, the Chief Minister confirmed that action is being taken against those who falsely availed of the benefits. However, he did not reveal further details about the ongoing investigations.
