Fresh Tamil Nadu-Centre Row Over Three-Language Policy
NEW DELHI: The ongoing debate surrounding the three-language policy in Tamil Nadu has intensified once again. Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin has accused the BJP-led Union government of imposing Hindi on the state. In response, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan criticized the DMK government for “doing politics” over the issue, reaffirming the Centre’s commitment to implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
Understanding the Three-Language Formula
The latest controversy erupted when Pradhan, during a speech in Varanasi on February 15, emphasized that Tamil Nadu must adhere to the Indian Constitution and accept the three-language formula, which he referred to as the rule of law. He noted that the NEP-2020 aims to provide a level playing field for students across the country, promoting multilingual education.
Pradhan stated, “To create competition among students, we must embrace multi-lingual education. Tamil is one of the oldest languages, but what is wrong if a student in Tamil Nadu learns multiple languages?” He clarified that there is no imposition of Hindi or any other language.
The Historical Context
Opposition to the three-language formula is entrenched in Tamil Nadu’s political history, with strong anti-Hindi agitations occurring in the 1930s and 1960s. This resistance ultimately led to the adoption of a two-language policy in the state. The DMK-led government has consistently opposed the Centre’s three-language policy, which has been in place since 1968 but remains largely unimplemented in Tamil Nadu.
Political Reactions
The state BJP dismissed the DMK’s objections as politically motivated, arguing that many private schools, including those owned by DMK politicians, teach Hindi and other languages. The BJP Tamil Nadu vice president condemned the CM for politicizing the issue.
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