Should We Not Respect All Languages? Ashok Gehlot Weighs In on the Marathi-Hindi Issue
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Synopsis
Ashok Gehlot, the former Rajasthan Chief Minister, recently highlighted the importance of respecting all languages during his visit to Mumbai. Amidst the Marathi-Hindi controversy, he advocates for unity and understanding rather than divisive conflicts over linguistic differences. His stance comes at a critical time as tensions rise in Maharashtra.
Key Takeaways
- Respect for all languages is crucial for societal harmony.
- Conflicts over language are regressive and counterproductive.
- The Maharashtra government's proposal to impose Hindi sparked public outrage.
- Gehlot advocates for the importance of multilingualism.
- The ruling coalition promises to revisit the decision after expert review.
Mumbai, July 13 (NationPress) Congress leader and former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot visited Mumbai on Sunday, advocating for the respect of all languages and religions. He emphasized that conflicts arising from linguistic differences are both regressive and unnecessary.
His remarks were made in light of the ongoing debate in Maharashtra regarding the enforcement of Hindi in schools, which has been marred by violent confrontations involving the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS). Their members were reported to have assaulted individuals who did not communicate in Marathi.
Gehlot stated, "Knowledge is power. Learning various languages is essential. No one should face restrictions in their language learning pursuits. Some individuals manage to learn up to five languages."
Reflecting on shifting societal norms, he remarked, "In our youth, we resisted English, but times have changed. Today, English is crucial, and we are teaching it to our children. Thus, it is misguided to engage in disputes over languages. Every language and every religion deserves respect."
The uproar began when the Maharashtra government proposed, then rescinded, two resolutions that aimed to make Hindi a mandatory third language in Marathi and English-medium schools for students in Classes 1 to 5.
This proposal ignited fierce backlash from the Opposition, public protests, and strong statements from regional groups like the MNS.
Both Shiv Sena (Uddhav Bal Thackeray faction) and Congress criticized the government for its attempt to "impose" Hindi in a predominantly Marathi-speaking state.
In response to the considerable public outcry and protests from the Opposition, the Maharashtra government has annulled the two resolutions concerning Hindi as a compulsory third language for young students.
Nevertheless, the ruling Mahayuti coalition maintains that this decision is merely a temporary suspension and will be reconsidered following the recommendations of an expert committee.
Point of View
I assert that language should unite us rather than divide us. Ashok Gehlot's call for respect towards all languages and religions is timely and essential in fostering harmony within our diverse society. We must prioritize understanding over conflict.
NationPress
13/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted Ashok Gehlot's remarks on language?
Gehlot's comments were made in response to the ongoing controversy in Maharashtra regarding the imposition of Hindi in schools, which has led to violent incidents involving non-Marathi speakers.
What was the government's proposal regarding Hindi?
The Maharashtra government had issued resolutions to make Hindi a compulsory third language in schools, which was later withdrawn due to significant public backlash.
How did the Maharashtra public react to the Hindi imposition?
The public reacted strongly against the government's proposal, leading to protests and criticism from various political parties, including Congress and Shiv Sena.
