Image Credit: X account @CMOMaharashtra
Maharashtra Language Panel Rejects Compulsory Hindi Policy
A heated debate has erupted in Maharashtra after the state government announced that Hindi would be made a compulsory third language in all schools under the state board from Class 1. The move, initiated under the leadership of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, has drawn strong opposition from the state’s language consultation committee, which has unanimously urged the government to withdraw the decision.
According to the directive issued by the School Education Department, students from Classes 1 to 10 will now be required to study Marathi, English, and Hindi. While officials claim the policy aligns with the National Education Policy and aims to foster better communication skills, the timing and implications of the decision have sparked widespread backlash.
Political Opposition Intensifies
Several political leaders have come out in strong opposition to the government’s move. The Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance, comprising the Shiv Sena (UBT), NCP (SP), and Congress, has criticized the decision as a politically motivated imposition. Leaders argue that the focus should be on improving the crumbling educational infrastructure before introducing sweeping curricular changes.
Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray stated that no language should be forcibly imposed on students and that learning should be a matter of choice. NCP (SP) MP Supriya Sule questioned the government’s priorities, asking whether such a move was needed at a time when the basic quality of education in many government-run schools is lacking. Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar echoed the sentiment, asserting that Marathi, as the mother tongue, must be protected and respected, and any coercion undermines the cultural fabric of the state.
Government Defends Language Push
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, responding to the criticism, defended the policy by asserting that Marathi remains a priority in Maharashtra. He expressed concern that while some were opposing Hindi, they were simultaneously promoting English, questioning the inconsistency. Fadnavis warned against any opposition to Marathi, suggesting that it would not be tolerated.
The debate highlights the larger national tension over language policy, particularly in multilingual states like Maharashtra. As the education sector prepares for the policy rollout, the controversy continues to stir linguistic and cultural sentiments, with many watching to see whether the government will reconsider its decision in response to the backlash.
