The debate surrounding the imposition of Hindi in Maharashtra schools has intensified, with Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray vocally opposing the move. He argues that making Hindi compulsory would burden students and that the focus should be on enhancing the existing education system. This stance comes amid discussions about the Maharashtra government's potential implementation of a three-language formula.
Thackeray emphasized the importance of not forcing any language on students. He stated that the current educational framework should continue and be improved upon rather than adding additional language requirements. He questioned why Hindi was being singled out and stressed the need to consider the burden on children, suggesting a restructuring of what they are already studying to make it better.
Echoing Thackeray's concerns, NCP chief Sharad Pawar stated that while Hindi is widely spoken, it should not be forced upon young students, particularly at the primary level. Pawar suggested that Hindi could be introduced after Class 5, emphasizing the need to analyze how many languages a child can realistically learn without overburdening them and sidelining their mother tongue. He urged the state government to reconsider making Hindi compulsory in early education.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had previously stated that a final decision on the three-language formula would be made after consulting with various stakeholders, including literateurs, language experts, and political leaders.
Adding another layer to the debate, Industries and Marathi Language Minister Uday Samant has claimed that the policy of making Hindi compulsory was initially approved during the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government, when Uddhav Thackeray was Chief Minister. Samant pointed to the Dr. Raghunath Mashelkar Committee's recommendation to include Marathi, English, and Hindi as compulsory subjects from Classes 1 to 12, which was allegedly approved in a cabinet meeting chaired by Uddhav Thackeray in January 2022. Samant accused Shiv Sena (UBT) of deliberately politicizing the issue for political gain, especially with municipal elections approaching.
Amidst the back and forth, Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray, estranged cousins, have agreed to join forces to oppose the imposition of Hindi in Maharashtra's school curriculum. Shiv Sena (UBT) and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) are expected to lead a joint march in Mumbai to protest the three-language formula. Uddhav Thackeray has questioned the constitutional basis and political motivation behind the policy, and has backed a July 7 march initiated by the Tribhasha Sutra Anti-Mumbai Coordination Committee, stating, "We will not allow the imposition of Hindi as a third language in Marathi and English schools for Classes 1 to 5 in Maharashtra. This is not just an educational issue; it is cultural encroachment."
