Hindi Imposition Controversy: Maharashtra Scraps 3-Language Formula Amid Political Backlash

Mumbai (The Uttam Hindu): The Maharashtra government has cancelled two resolutions related to the implementation of a three-language policy in schools after facing backlash over alleged Hindi imposition. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced that a committee led by educationist Dr Narendra Jadhav will now review and suggest how and when the policy should be implemented. Until the panel submits its report, both the April 16 and June 17 Government Resolutions (GRs) have been revoked.

The controversy erupted after the April 16 GR made Hindi a compulsory third language for Classes 1 to 5 in English and Marathi medium schools. A second GR on June 17 stated that Hindi would “generally” be the third language, reigniting the 'Hindi imposition' debate. Opposition parties, including Shiv Sena (UBT), MNS, and NCP (SP), accused the government of sidelining regional languages.

Speaking before the monsoon session of the Assembly, Fadnavis defended the move and reiterated the government’s commitment to Marathi. He also criticized Uddhav Thackeray for previously accepting a similar policy and questioned Raj Thackeray’s delayed opposition. The decision to revoke the resolutions came hours after state-wide protests led by the Opposition, which have now been calle

d off.