Screengrab from the viral video (Image: Instagram/zoyaali.reel.life)
NEW DELHI: A video of a family being allegedly harassed and threatened by auto drivers in Navi Mumbai has gone viral on social media, sparking outrage over growing cases of language-based intimidation in Maharashtra.The clip, shared by the account Zoyali Reel Life, shows a netizen recounting the ordeal. According to the post, the incident took place on the stretch from Koparkhairane to Ghansoli. The family claimed that their car was rammed by an auto-rickshaw, which damaged their number plate. Soon after, three to four more rickshaws blocked their vehicle. With their six-month-old baby inside, the family alleged they were harassed and forced to pay money. As per the post, attackers also targeted them for being non-Marathi speakers.One man started shouting, ‘Speak Marathi, this is Maharashtra!’ while another auto driver said, ‘They are from Delhi, take double money from them!’ “Harassed by locals for not speaking marathi. Forced us to pay. Maharashtra is not safe for outsiders.’,” the netizen wrote.The clip has triggered widespread reactions online. One user wrote, “Very disappointed. Hope you guys are safe and be careful.” Another commented, “Great job for making it public. Stay safe!”The incident comes amid growing concerns over similar cases. Last month, seven unidentified persons, allegedly linked to the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), were booked in Mira Road for assaulting a sweet shop owner for not speaking Marathi.
