In a recent statement, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis addressed the ongoing controversy regarding the requirement for taxi and autorickshaw drivers to have a working knowledge of Marathi, the state's native language. He asserted that while pride in the Marathi language is vital, any form of violence or coercion related to language is unacceptable. Fadnavis highlighted that Maharashtra has historically embraced migrants and encouraged non-native residents to learn Marathi as a means of fostering unity. He criticized the narrow-mindedness suggested by Raj Thackeray, the chief of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), who called for assertiveness regarding the use of Marathi. Fadnavis reiterated that outreach and education would be the government's approach to promote the language, rather than imposing strict requirements. He expressed pride in the achievements of Marathi-speaking individuals across India, noting their contributions to various states.