Marathi language ignored on Maharashtra Day, claims Diwakar Raote

Raote also claimed that Gujarati traders, who compare Modi with silver, have never been seen acknowledging Bal Thackeray's work for Maharashtra

Shiv Sena leader Diwakar Raote today said that the official language of Maharashtra was ignored at the 54th Maharashtra Day celebration here.

"It is unfortunate that there was no minister present who could read his speech in pure Marathi," Raote said while addressing the media after the event held at Dadar.

Raote also expressed his displeasure at several ministers being absent at the event.

Governor K Sankaranarayanan and Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan had attended the Maharashtra Day celebrations today.

Endorsing an article in Shiv Sena mouth piece 'Saamana' which called upon the Gujaratis to unite for unfurling the saffron flag of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj atop Mantralaya, Raote said, "Gujarati diamond traders have united to rally behind Narendra Modi. Will the same Gujaratis unite with Maharashtra as well?"

Raote also claimed that Gujarati traders, who compare Modi with silver, have never been seen acknowledging and respecting Sena leader late Bal Thackeray's work for Maharashtra.