Video: Airtel Employee’s ‘Why Should I Speak Marathi?’ Question Goes Viral, Stirs Controversy

A video from Mumbai featuring an Airtel employee refusing to interact in Marathi has ignited a major controversy online. The clip, widely shared on social media, shows the employee dismissing a customer's request to converse in Marathi, saying, “Why should I speak in Marathi? Where is it written to speak Marathi in Maharashtra? You should speak to me properly.” She further adds, “Marathi is not important to me. We live in Hindustan and anyone can use any language.”

The customer, who was reportedly trying to raise a complaint, alleged that the employee not only ignored his grievances but also yelled at him. In the video, she is also heard saying, “Have you bought, or do you own Maharashtra? Are you going to tell me where to work and not to work? Recording is not allowed, or I will call the police.”

The incident has sparked outrage, with BJP MLC Chitra Wagh slamming the employee for her attitude. In a post on X, she stated, “The arrogance and rudeness in the Airtel gallery has come to light. Disrespect for Maharashtra and the Marathi language will not be tolerated. Airtel should apologise to all Marathi speakers on behalf of that girl.”

She further demanded that all Airtel employees in Maharashtra must be proficient in Marathi and that the company should prioritise hiring those fluent in the language.

“Going forward, every manager and employee in your galleries must be proficient in Marathi, and recruitment should prioritise individuals fluent in the language. If one resides in Maharashtra, they must know Marathi. If they don’t, they should at least be willing to learn and respect the language," said Chitra Wagh.

As of now, Airtel has not issued an official statement on the matter.