Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar (Maharashtra) [India], April 19: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday reaffirmed that Marathi will remain compulsory in the state, amid rising political debate over the government’s decision to make Hindi a mandatory third language under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
Speaking to the media, Fadnavis stressed that while Marathi is non-negotiable, the choice to learn additional languages like Hindi or English should be left to individuals.
“Marathi language is compulsory in Maharashtra; everyone should learn it. Additionally, if you wish to learn other languages, you can do so. Opposition to Hindi and promotion of English is surprising. If someone opposes Marathi, then it will not be tolerated,” he said.
The state government recently mandated Hindi as a third language from Class 1 in all state board schools, alongside Marathi and English. The move, taken by the School Education Department on April 16, aligns with NEP 2020 goals.
Rahul Ashok Rekhawar, Director of the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT), clarified that the decision is aimed at enhancing educational development, not pushing any political or communal agenda.
“The students will definitely benefit from learning three languages. The decision is purely academic,” Rekhawar said.
However, the decision sparked criticism from the opposition. Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar objected to what he described as the “imposition” of Hindi.
“You can keep it optional, but you cannot impose it. At whose behest are you trying to impose this language on the state?” he said, emphasizing that Marathi is the mother tongue and must be protected.
Wadettiwar warned against any move that could be perceived as undermining the rights of Marathi-speaking citizens, and demanded that Hindi remain an optional subject, not a compulsory one.
The debate touches upon larger concerns around language politics, regional identity, and educational priorities, as the state balances implementation of national policy with local sensitivities.