Mysuru, March 28 (NationPress) Addressing the ongoing debate over the government's stance on making Hindi a mandatory subject for Secondary School Leaving Certificate (Class 10) students, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah emphasized that no decision has been made regarding a two-language policy in the state. He further clarified that the government is not opposed to the study of Hindi.

Siddaramaiah made these remarks while speaking to reporters at Mysuru airport on Saturday, in response to inquiries about the implementation of a two-language policy.

He elaborated that this year, marks for Hindi as a third language would no longer contribute to the SSLC board results. Consequently, the total marks for the SSLC examination will decrease from 625 to 525.

In response to concerns about the push for a two-language policy and the opposition from private educational institutions, he remarked that any governmental decision is likely to receive a mix of support and dissent.

“The government does not oppose learning Hindi, but it should not be a requirement for passing exams,” he asserted.

He continued, “We have made our decision. There will always be individuals who support or contest such decisions. Achieving unanimous agreement on any issue is unrealistic. This is not about imposing Hindi or discouraging its learning; it simply concerns Hindi not being compulsory for board exam qualification.”

“In my time as a student, Hindi was not mandatory. Since it wasn’t compulsory, I did not prioritize learning it,” he recalled.

On the topic of the upcoming by-elections in the state, Siddaramaiah expressed optimism regarding the Congress party's prospects in Davanagere and Bagalkot.

He announced that he would commence campaigning on Monday and would subsequently travel to Kerala for election activities on April 5.

“I will begin my campaign on March 30. I will be in Bagalkot on March 30 and 31, then in Davanagere on April 1 and 2, return to Bagalkot on April 3 and 4, and finally head to Kerala on April 5. After that, I may visit either Bagalkot or Davanagere on April 6,” he detailed.

He noted the Congress party’s success in previous by-elections as a sign of future victories. “We will secure both seats. There is no uncertainty in Davanagere, especially since the rebel candidate has withdrawn from the race,” he added.

When asked if the bypoll results would clarify speculation regarding the Chief Minister’s role, Siddaramaiah stated that there is no link between the elections and the CM position. “If the party high command allows, I will also present the budget for the next two years. We follow the directives of the high command,” he stated.

“Our party operates under the guidance of the high command,” he reiterated.

In response to queries about drug trafficking in Mysuru and its connection to Mumbai, he mentioned that the government has initiated a crackdown on the drug trade with the objective of making Karnataka drug-free.

Authorities have identified a drug network within Mysuru, and legal action will be taken against those involved.