A controversy has erupted after a Marathi-speaking couple was reportedly pressured by a ticket collector on Western Railway to communicate in Hindi. The incident, which has sparked protests by the Marathi Ekikaran Samiti, came to light after the couple alleged that they were detained and coerced into writing a statement pledging they would not demand the right to speak in Marathi.
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The incident reportedly involved a ticket examiner (TTE), identified as Rakesh Maurya, who allegedly confronted the couple and insisted they speak in Hindi, remarking, “If you are in India, you should know Hindi.” According to statements from the Marathi Ekikaran Samiti, the TTE also forced the couple to sign a written declaration stating, “We will never demand to talk in Marathi.” The wife managed to record the interaction on her phone, but was allegedly compelled to delete the footage. Subsequently, the couple was detained in the Railway Protection Force (RPF) office for an extended period before being released.
Protests Erupt at Nalasopara Station
Following the incident, members of the Marathi Ekikaran Samiti gathered at Nalasopara station to protest, calling the act a “disrespect to Marathi language” and demanding justice. The protestors are rallying for the preservation of Marathi rights and the respectful treatment of Marathi-speaking passengers. In response, Western Railway announced that the TTE had been suspended pending investigation, stating, “Passengers of all religions, languages, and regions are equal, and our aim is to provide the best service.” The Vasai Government Railway Police (GRP) has also registered an FIR, and an inquiry is underway.
Western Railway emphasized its commitment to fairness, assuring the public that appropriate actions will be taken if any misconduct is confirmed.