Three-language formula under review after backlash
Article Today, Mumbai:
The Maharashtra government has withdrawn its controversial decision to introduce Hindi as a compulsory third language in primary schools. This move follows intense political pressure and public opposition across the state. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced the rollback on Sunday, declaring that the state’s focus will remain on strengthening Marathi. The government also plans to form a new committee to re-evaluate the language policy before taking any further steps.
Strong opposition forces policy reversal
Earlier, the government proposed making Hindi compulsory in all Marathi and English medium schools from classes 1 to 5. This was part of implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 in a phased manner. However, the proposal triggered widespread protests. Political parties, social organizations, and cultural bodies criticized the decision, arguing it undermines regional identity. In response, the cabinet met to reconsider the plan and finally scrapped two official circulars related to the language policy.
Fadnavis clarifies state’s stance
Chief Minister Fadnavis stated that the state would not impose Hindi on schools or students. “Students will have the option to choose any regional language as their third language,” he said. He emphasized that Marathi will remain the primary focus of the state’s education policy. The newly proposed committee will consult stakeholders and submit recommendations before the government finalizes any new language guidelines.
Opposition takes credit for rollback
Opposition parties, including Raj Thackeray’s Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) and Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena faction, welcomed the rollback. Both parties had strongly opposed the Hindi mandate, calling it a threat to Maharashtra’s linguistic and cultural diversity. They even organized a joint protest rally in Mumbai. Party leaders accused the government of promoting Hindi at the cost of regional languages and claimed victory after the withdrawal of the circular.
Controversy sparked by April circular
The issue began in April when the ruling MahaYuti government issued a circular mandating Hindi as the third language in primary classes. Though aligned with NEP 2020, the directive drew criticism for ignoring the state’s linguistic fabric. Many saw it as an imposition of Hindi in a region proud of its Marathi heritage. The backlash quickly gained momentum, prompting the state to reconsider its position.
Focus returns to Marathi identity
As the language debate continues, Maharashtra has reaffirmed its commitment to protect and promote the Marathi language. The chief minister’s clarification marks a pause in the attempt to enforce Hindi in primary education. For now, students will not be bound to study Hindi and can opt for other Indian languages under the three-language formula.
