Mumbai: A new directive from the Maharashtra School Education Department has reignited the language debate in the state. The government has officially stated that Hindi will now be introduced as a “general” third language for students in Classes 1 to 5 in both Marathi and English medium schools, sparking criticism from language rights groups.
This announcement, issued as part of the State Curriculum Framework – School Education 2024, is being seen by critics as a “stealth comeback” of a controversial policy the government had earlier promised to reconsider. The move aligns with the National Education Policy 2020, which promotes multilingual education — but opponents argue that it prioritizes Hindi at the cost of linguistic diversity.
Language Choice Conditional, Critics Unsatisfied
The latest government resolution offers a way for schools to offer a different Indian language in place of Hindi — but only if at least 20 students from a particular standard in a school make the request. In that case, a teacher would be appointed, or online instruction would be provided.
However, language activists and opposition voices say the new rule creates unnecessary obstacles, making it impractical for students to opt for any Indian language besides Hindi.
Confusion After Earlier U-Turn by Government
The controversy traces back to April this year, when Education Minister Dada Bhuse assured the public that no language would be forcibly imposed in primary education. He later indicated that suggestions from parents — especially to introduce Hindi from Class 3 instead of Class 1 — were under review and that the three-language policy was temporarily on hold.
Now, with the latest government notification quietly making Hindi the default third language, education watchers say the earlier assurance has been contradicted.
What the New Rule Says
In schools using mediums other than Marathi or English, the policy will mandate three languages:
- The medium of instruction
- Marathi (compulsory)
- English
For Marathi and English-medium schools, Hindi will be the third language by default, unless replaced under the 20-student request clause.
Political Reactions Expected
While the government insists the move is in line with NEP-2020 and intended to enhance multilingual proficiency, critics warn of brewing backlash, especially from regional language advocates and political parties that support linguistic autonomy.
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