The Maharashtra government announced on Sunday the withdrawal of their revised government order (GR) regarding the three-language policy. Amid accusations of imposing Hindi as the third language, rising opposition prompted this decision. Concurrently, the government announced the formation of a new committee to evaluate and implement this policy.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis explained that this decision was reached at a state cabinet meeting. A committee led by Dr. Narendra Jadhav will be established to deliberate on the policy and its implementation methods. The policy will be implemented only after the committee submits its report.
'Marathi Language Takes Center Stage'
CM Fadnavis also clarified that until the committee’s recommendations are received, both GRs related to the three-language policy have been revoked. He stated that the Marathi language remains pivotal to us.
What Did the Government Order Say?
The state government had previously issued a revised order stating that from the first to the fifth grade in Marathi and English medium schools, Hindi would be taught as a third language. This decision was part of a phased implementation under the National Education Policy 2020 at the primary level. However, it was also noted that if at least 20 students in a class wish to choose another Indian language instead of Hindi, the school should arrange a teacher for that language, or the subject can be taught online.
Opposition Parties Sharply Criticize
The move by the Maharashtra government attracted sharp criticism from opposition parties. They claimed the government is neglecting regional languages by promoting Hindi, potentially harming the state’s linguistic diversity and Marathi identity. The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), led by Raj Thackeray, protested against this policy and urged Marathi speakers to voice their dissent publicly.
Government Bows to Marathi Sentiment: Raj Thackeray
In response to the government’s decision, MNS chief Raj Thackeray commented, declaring that the imposition of Hindi was completely thwarted by Marathi public sentiment. Thackeray remarked that this wasn't a late realization, but a consequence of the Marathi people's anger, forcing the government to retreat. Mysteries remain, however, as to why the government was so stubborn about Hindi, and where exactly this pressure originated.
