Dombivli: Two women, one carrying a nine-month-old baby, were allegedly assaulted in a Dombivli housing society after saying “excuse me” instead of speaking Marathi.

The incident occurred on April 8 at the society's entrance, when the women, on a scooter, asked a young man blocking the way to move. Offended by the English phrase, the man allegedly twisted one woman’s arm.

The situation escalated when four or five women and two men from his family, all residents of the building, joined in the attack, reportedly showing no concern for the infant. Eyewitnesses have condemned the violence, which was captured in a now-viral video.

The complainant said “excuse me” was a polite gesture, not meant to provoke. Vishnunagar Police have launched an investigation, but no FIR has been filed yet. Authorities are also looking into whether prior personal tensions contributed to the clash.

The assault has reignited debate over rising language-based tensions in Maharashtra, following recent campaigns by the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) demanding Marathi-only communication in banks. Critics say such incidents threaten peaceful coexistence and deepen social divides in urban areas.