Political dadagiri amplified by social media makes Maximum City uneasy

The streets of Mumbai, often bustling with the energy of its diverse populace, are now witnessing an unsettling rise in violence by political activists. These groups, championing the cause of Marathi prestige, have increasingly turned to social media to amplify their influence and organize their activities. This digital fervor has led to a climate of intimidation, especially towards service providers and small business owners, who find themselves caught in the crossfire of political ambitions and regional pride. Service providers, ranging from taxi drivers to local shopkeepers, report feeling pressured to conform to the demands of these activists or face potential backlash. Many have expressed concerns over their safety and the stability of their livelihoods as incidents of vandalism and threats become more frequent. Social media platforms, while offering a stage for political discourse, have also become a tool for spreading fear, with videos and messages inciting actions against those perceived as outsiders or insufficiently aligned with the Marathi cause. Authorities are grappling with the dual challenge of maintaining public order and respecting the rights of individuals to express cultural pride. Efforts are underway to monitor and curb the misuse of social media for inciting violence, while community leaders call for dialogue and understanding. As Mumbai navigates these turbulent times, the balance between cultural assertion and communal harmony remains a delicate one, with the city's famed resilience once again being put to the test.

— Authored by Next24 Live