📌 Crisis Over Language: Maharashtra’s Hindi Row Explained
Language is not only a medium—it’s identity. And in Maharashtra, that identity recently collided with policy when the state government attempted to introduce Hindi as a mandatory third language in primary schools under NEP‑2020. The proposal set off a political and cultural maelstrom, united erstwhile political rivals, enflamed statewide protests, and ultimately forced the state government to cower back in retreat.
Let’s unpack what exactly happened and why this incident matters to every Indian.
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🧾 What Is it That the Government Was Trying to Do?
In early June 2025, the BJP led government of Maharashtra released two Government Resolutions (GRs) enforcing Hindi as a third language from Classes 1 to 5 in all schools (Marathi will remain the first language). This was within the framework of the New Education Policy (NEP-2020).
For many Maharashtrians, it was not just the decision to include Hindi, but the way in which that inclusion was forced in a unilateral feeling of Hindi thopna - a unilateral imposition of another language into their proud Marathi lexicon.
🔥 Huge Backlash: From Streets to Sabhab Political and public fury followed literally within hours:
MNS (Raj Thackeray) and Shiv Sena (UBT- Uddhav Thackeray)- erstwhile rivals; joined forces after 20 years to oppose what they dubbed an “affront to Wend to Marathi asmita”.
Protestors tore up copies Hindi GRs in Pune, Nagpur and other Indian cities.
In Mumbai locals and youth danced to slogans like “Marathi bola, tumhi Marathi bola” in overt defiance.
Even Deputy CM Ajit Pawar sunshine (NCP) disapproved of the decision by suggesting Hindi should come in at Class 5.
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🏛️ The Political Stakes
CM Devendra Fadnavis is adamant that Marathi won't be superseded, but the heat was on. By ibi factister the state pulled both GR's on 30 Jun `that "public sentiment" was thus, and that consultation with all stakeholders was warranted.
A review cart can evaluate the language policy under NEP.
🌍 The Larger Vision: Why Does This Matter
This is not just about Maharashtra. It's about the balance between unity and language.
Hindi may be the most spoken language in India, but states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Bengal have consistently pushed back against its dominance.
The protest speaks to how much of a role regional languages play in identity, culture, and politics.
India's diversity is its asset...if it is respected.
What do you think?
Should Hindi be made compulsory in non-Hindi speaking states?
Can India have a common language policy without compromising identity?
💬 Comment below and join the conversation. Desh Duniya wants your voice heard.
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