Are the Children of 'Anti-English' BJP Leaders Learning the Same Language Abroad?

New Delhi, June 20 (NationPress) The Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Friday emphasized the significance of English as a tool for the underprivileged to secure employment and progress in life, while criticizing the BJP-RSS for their perceived disdain towards the colonial-era language.

“In the modern world, English holds the same weight as your mother tongue - it opens up job opportunities and enhances your self-confidence,” Gandhi expressed in a message directed at the youth on X.

He elaborated, “English is not a barrier; it is a bridge. It is not a source of shame; it represents power. English is not a chain but a means to liberate oneself from the chains.”

Gandhi also criticized BJP leaders, pointing out that their children speak English and study abroad while they discourage the public in India from embracing the language.

“The BJP-RSS do not want the poor children of India to learn English - as it empowers them to question, advance, and attain equality. In today’s world, English is as vital as your mother tongue - it leads to employment and boosts confidence,” wrote LoP Rahul Gandhi on X in Hindi.

His social media post included a brief video showcasing young individuals and listing Union Ministers whose children attend foreign universities, such as the University of Pennsylvania, Yale University, Warwick University, Oxford University, Tufts University, and the University of London.

Gandhi's comments follow Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s recent statement at an event, where he remarked that a time will come when “English-speaking individuals will feel shame.”

Shah’s comments, made during the launch of a Hindi book, followed concerns raised by a fellow speaker regarding the perceived threat to Hindi and the differences among people regarding its usage.

“Mark my words, there is no crisis. In the near future, a society will emerge where English-speaking people may feel ashamed,” stated Amit Shah.

He expressed that superficial knowledge gained through foreign languages cannot lead to a full understanding of Indian culture, history, and religion, underlining Hindi's importance as a unifying force in the nation.

LoP Rahul Gandhi's remarks also carried a strong message against the alleged imposition of Hindi in non-Hindi speaking regions like Tamil Nadu.

“Every language in India embodies its own soul, culture, and wisdom. We must honor them while simultaneously teaching English to every child. This is the route to an India that competes globally and ensures equal opportunities for all children,” concluded LoP Rahul Gandhi.