Palghar, January 30: A shocking incident from Nalasopara has triggered widespread outrage after a youth was allegedly assaulted, humiliated and dragged half-naked on a public road by workers of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena and Shiv Sena (UBT). A video of the assault has gone viral on social media, raising serious questions over mob justice, free speech and policing.

According to available information, the victim has been identified as Suraj Mahendra Shirke. He is accused of posting highly derogatory and obscene comments on social media platforms against prominent political leaders, including Raj Thackeray, Uddhav Thackeray and Aditya Thackeray. The posts allegedly questioned the integrity of current political leadership and used abusive language. Maharashtra Language Row: MNS Workers Assault Hawker for Insulting Marathi in Thane’s Badlapur, Video Surfaces.

Nalasopara Horror Video Sparks Outrage as MNS, Shiv Sena UBT Workers Thrash Youth

Party workers claimed the comments “deeply hurt sentiments” of supporters. Acting on information that Shirke was hiding in Nalasopara, a group of workers reportedly tracked him down. The situation escalated when he was beaten, partially stripped and dragged on the road for nearly one and a half kilometres, as seen in the viral video. ‘Will Not Speak in Marathi, Do What You Want’: MNS Workers Slap D-Mart Employee for Not Speaking in Marathi in Versova (Watch Video).

Following the incident, MNS sub-divisional president Kiran Nakashe posted a message defending the assault. “Those who use obscene language against leaders who are worshipped like gods by our supporters should be ready to face the consequences,” he wrote, adding that “identity or background does not matter.”

The incident created a tense atmosphere in the area, prompting increased police deployment. While authorities are yet to announce concrete action, civil society voices have flagged concerns over vigilantism, misuse of political power and the chilling effect on freedom of expression.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 30, 2026 03:07 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).