'I Am Minister And MLA Later, Marathi First': Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik Stands Firm On Regional Identity During Mira Road Rally

Mumbai: Reaffirming his commitment to the Marathi identity and local rights, Maharashtra Transport Minister and Dharashiv District Guardian Minister Pratap Sarnaik participated in a protest rally organized by the Marathi Ekikaran Samiti in Mira Road, despite knowing he would face opposition slogans from MNS and UBT workers.

The rally, led by Marathi Ekikaran Samiti president Govardhan Deshmukh, was organized to assert the rights and pride of the Marathi-speaking population in the city.

Minister Sarnaik joined the rally at the request of Deshmukh, even after being aware that some political workers present were planning to raise slogans against him. Nonetheless, he chose to attend, putting Marathi identity above political convenience.

Before joining the rally, Minister Sarnaik intervened at Kashigaon Police Station to secure the release of Deshmukh, who had been detained earlier. He also ensured the release of other MNS and Samiti workers held at Navghar Police Station. Only after securing their release did he proceed to join the rally in person.

Late last night, Minister Sarnaik met Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to raise concerns over the alleged misconduct of the police in detaining MNS leaders and workers unjustly. He stated that, like the peaceful traders’ protest held recently, this rally too was expected to remain peaceful.

However, preemptive arrests by the police escalated tensions unnecessarily. Sarnaik demanded strict action against the officers responsible for the mishandling, and CM Fadnavis reportedly assured a positive response.

Speaking to the media, Sarnaik strongly defended his participation, stating, “Whenever injustice is done to Marathi people, I will stand by them, forgetting my position or political role. I was not part of this rally for political mileage, but for Marathi pride. Despite attempts by some to disrupt the atmosphere with slogans, I fulfilled my duty. It is my moral and social responsibility to support the Marathi people and ensure peace in the city.”

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He emphasized that while maintaining law and order is everyone’s responsibility, no one should undermine the dignity of Marathi identity.

“Expecting praise in places dominated by MNS or UBTA workers is foolish. I had given my word to the Marathi Ekikaran Samiti that I would attend this rally in support of Marathi pride, and I have honored that promise. Whenever the issue concerns the rights of Marathi people in Mira-Bhayandar, I will stand with them — not as a minister or MLA, but as a Marathi person first,” he declared.