Mumbai Deputy Mayor Sanjay Ghadi has issued a stern warning to shops, hotels, and other commercial establishments in the city, including five-star hotels and celebrity-owned outlets, to install signboards in Marathi within a month or face what he termed as 'Sena-style' action. The directive, announced on Thursday, underscores the municipal corporation's push to promote the use of the regional language in public spaces.
Deadline for Compliance
Ghadi stated that all business entities must display Marathi signboards prominently, in addition to any other languages they choose to use. The deadline for compliance is set at 30 days from the date of the announcement. Failure to adhere to this order will result in strict action, including possible fines or even physical removal of non-compliant signage, reminiscent of the Shiv Sena's past campaigns to enforce Marathi usage.
Scope of the Order
The directive applies to a wide range of establishments, from small roadside shops to luxury five-star hotels and outlets owned by celebrities. Ghadi emphasized that no entity would be exempt, regardless of its prominence or clientele. The move is part of a broader effort to preserve and promote Marathi language and culture in Maharashtra's capital.
Reactions and Implications
Business owners have expressed mixed reactions. While some support the initiative to respect local language, others have raised concerns about the cost and logistics of replacing existing signboards. The deputy mayor, however, remained firm, stating that the law must be followed. This development is likely to spark debates on language policy and regional identity, especially in a cosmopolitan city like Mumbai.
The municipal corporation is expected to conduct inspections after the deadline to ensure compliance. Non-compliant establishments may face penalties, including revocation of trade licenses. Ghadi's warning signals a zero-tolerance approach, echoing the Shiv Sena's historical stance on Marathi language enforcement.
