Special Correspondent | Mumbai
Amid the growing controversy over the state government’s move to introduce Hindi as a compulsory subject from Grade 1 in Maharashtra schools, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis strongly defended the decision and questioned the opposition’s “double standards.”
“Why is there resistance to Hindi but not to English? Isn’t that hypocrisy?” Fadnavis asked, while addressing the media. “In Maharashtra, everyone must learn Marathi—there is no question about that. But opposing Hindi while welcoming English with open arms reflects a contradictory mindset.”
The debate over the inclusion of Hindi in the early school curriculum has intensified political tensions across Maharashtra. While the BJP-led government insists that the move aligns with the Centre’s Three-Language Formula, opposition parties like the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) and the Congress have accused the government of promoting “Hindi imposition.”
MNS chief Raj Thackeray issued a sharp warning stating, “Hindi will not be forced upon Maharashtra. We will not tolerate this Hindi-centric agenda of the Centre. If the state tries to enforce Hindi from the first grade, MNS will hit the streets.”
Responding to such criticisms, Fadnavis clarified, “We are not making any new policy decisions. This is in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) which has already been implemented. The inclusion of Hindi is not about politics—it’s about providing students access to a broader set of languages that empower them nationally and globally.”
According to the School Education Department, the inclusion of Hindi is in compliance with the existing Three-Language Formula—which advocates for students to learn three languages: English, Marathi, and Hindi. The department clarified that the goal is to make students multilingual and better equipped for future opportunities.
Education experts, too, have weighed in. One prominent educationist stated, “Rather than just teaching a language, we should focus on how students can use language as a tool. A balanced exposure to English, Hindi, and Marathi gives them an edge in academics and careers.”
Fadnavis further emphasized that “Marathi is non-negotiable. Every child in Maharashtra must learn Marathi. But in a country as diverse as ours, having a link language like Hindi helps unite people and improves communication across states.”
As the language debate rages on, it has once again highlighted the deep emotional and political sensitivities attached to linguistic identity in Maharashtra. While the government argues it is merely following policy, the opposition remains adamant that “cultural imposition under the garb of education” will not be tolerated.
