Will Maharashtra Allow Hindi Imposition? Uddhav Thackeray Responds
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Synopsis
Uddhav Thackeray, the Shiv Sena (UBT) chief, firmly opposes the imposition of Hindi as a third language in Maharashtra's schools. He calls for unity among Marathi people to resist this mandate and highlights the implications of such a move on the state's language policy.
Key Takeaways
- Uddhav Thackeray opposes Hindi as a third language in schools.
- He calls for unity among Marathi citizens against the imposition.
- Thackeray highlights a potential hidden agenda behind the decision.
- Critiques the BJP's approach to language policy.
- Plans for a meeting with civil society to discuss this issue further.
Mumbai, June 26 (NationPress) Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray declared on Thursday that he will oppose any attempt to impose Hindi as a third language in schools that teach in English and Marathi mediums across Maharashtra.
"We have firmly resisted the imposition of Hindi in our state. In how many states is this three-language policy actually enforced? What drives the state government to enforce Hindi in Maharashtra? Why not adopt a one-language approach instead? The push for Hindi signifies a monopoly. This was previously promised by BJP national president JP Nadda," expressed Thackeray, emphasizing his commitment to preventing Hindi's imposition in the region.
"Our stance is not against the language itself, but against its enforced implementation. There is a concealed agenda behind this initiative. I urge all Marathi citizens to unite in this cause," Thackeray mentioned during a press briefing.
"Individuals from the Marathi entertainment industry, sports figures, and legal professionals must step forward against Hindi's imposition. Literary voices have already raised their concerns. Anyone with Marathi heritage should partake in this movement, including genuine Marathi members within the BJP," he added.
Thackeray critiqued the BJP, quipping, "Finding authentic individuals within the party is a matter worthy of investigation."
He clarified that if Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis decides not to make Hindi compulsory, this matter can be resolved in a matter of minutes.
"We will convene a meeting with civil society representatives on Sunday. The government’s decision on April 16 indicated a mandatory approach; however, the June 17 directive replaced 'mandatory' with 'general.' Both terms convey the same implication. Furthermore, the Chief Secretary's circular from June 6 mandated that NCERT books be used, threatening the existence of Bal Bharati in the near future," stated Thackeray.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the delicate balance between promoting linguistic diversity and upholding the cultural identity of regions. Uddhav Thackeray’s stance against Hindi imposition reflects a broader sentiment among regional leaders advocating for the preservation of local languages and cultures. The discussion surrounding language policy in India remains a vital aspect of national identity and unity.
NationPress
26/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Uddhav Thackeray opposing Hindi as a third language?
Uddhav Thackeray is opposing Hindi's imposition as he believes it undermines the Marathi identity and promotes a monopoly over language education in Maharashtra.
What alternatives does Thackeray suggest?
Thackeray suggests adopting a one-language formula instead of enforcing Hindi, urging unity among Marathi people to resist the imposition.
What implications does this have for education in Maharashtra?
The imposition of Hindi could threaten the use of Marathi medium education and the existence of institutions like Bal Bharati, affecting cultural preservation.
