A heated debate has erupted in Maharashtra over the new three-language policy. Amid growing protests and public criticism, BJP Maharashtra President Ashish Shelar clarified that the government has not made Hindi compulsory in any grade. He stated that the opposition is largely due to misunderstandings, and the government remains committed to the welfare of students and the Marathi language.
Hindi No Longer Mandatory, Now an Optional Language
According to Shelar, earlier Hindi was mandatory from Classes 5 to 8, but the current government has removed that requirement. Now, students can choose from 15 languages—including Hindi—as an optional subject. He emphasized that the goal is to offer flexibility, not to impose any particular language.
Government Firmly Supports Marathi and Student Interests
Shelar assured that the Maharashtra government remains a strong supporter of the Marathi language and student interests. He described the ongoing debates as “illogical, unjustified, and unrealistic,” but welcomed healthy discussions in a democratic framework. “Some people protesting have every right to do so. That’s the beauty of democracy,” he said.
Policy Based on Expert Recommendations and Public Input
Shelar explained that the three-language policy was not a political decision but the outcome of detailed academic research. The government appointed a panel of officials, and around 450 education and language experts studied the matter for a year. A draft was released for public feedback, receiving over 3,800 objections and suggestions. After reviewing them, the Sukanu Committee submitted a final report recommending Hindi as one of the optional third language choices.
Literary Voices Join the Protest: Hemant Divate Returns State Award
The literary community has also expressed concerns. Renowned Marathi poet and state awardee Hemant Divate announced that he will return his literary award in protest. Divate, who received the ‘Kavi Keshavsut Award’ in 2021 for his poetry collection ‘Paranoia’, strongly opposed the idea of introducing Hindi as a third language from Classes 1 to 5.
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding the three-language policy highlights the sensitive nature of language in education. While the government has clarified its position, continued public dialogue, transparency, and inclusive policymaking will be key to building consensus on this issue.