Rising Attacks on Shopkeepers Over Language Sparks Outrage from Traders’ Body
Mumbai, 2nd July 2025: The Federation of Retail Traders Welfare Association (FRTWA) has raised serious concerns over the growing number of attacks and abuses targeting shopkeepers and their staff in the name of language, particularly in Mumbai. The body has urged the Maharashtra government to take strict and immediate action to stop these politically motivated incidents.
In recent days, several disturbing videos have surfaced on social media showing activists of a political party allegedly assaulting shopkeepers and employees who do not speak Marathi. Though the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has been at the forefront of the Marathi language campaign, FRTWA president Viren Shah refrained from naming any specific political group.
Shah, in a video message posted online, condemned the violence and said, “While it is important to learn and speak Marathi in Maharashtra, no one has the right to beat, insult or threaten shopkeepers. Such actions are a clear violation of the law and should not be tolerated.”
He also questioned the inaction of the police and state authorities, asking why no cases had been registered despite multiple public instances of violence. “Stop spreading fear in the minds of shopkeepers,” Shah demanded, adding that such tactics for political gains damage the business environment in the city.
The FRTWA has appealed to the government to ensure that offenders are booked and prosecuted, and that law and order is upheld across the state. Shah emphasized that while Marathi should be respected, language must not become a tool for intimidation or violence.
With Maharashtra’s commercial capital under the spotlight, shopkeepers are seeking reassurance and protection from authorities amidst increasing tension and unrest.
