Patna (Bihar) [India], February 22: In the ongoing debate over the implementation of the three-language policy between Tamil Nadu and the Centre, Janata Dal (United) leader Neeraj Kumar has hit out at Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin. He advised Stalin to prioritize the progress of language over political gains.
Neeraj Kumar emphasized the importance of respecting linguistic diversity, stating, “Diversity in languages is our asset. Respecting every language is our traditional culture. But among this diversity, the unity is depicted by the mother tongue of the country.” He further added that both the state and the centre are responsible for funding the education sector, with funds allocated to states under the concurrent list of the constitution. Kumar pointed out that if the Tamil Nadu government refuses to spend these allocated funds, it could be perceived as having an anti-Dalit mindset.
“Hindi is known as a national language, but we respect the Tamil language also. MK Stalin should work for the progress of language and not for political gain,” Neeraj Kumar stated.
This exchange comes amid rising tensions between the DMK and BJP ahead of the 2026 elections, particularly over the issue of language policy and the allocation of funds to Tamil Nadu.
Earlier on Friday, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan had strongly criticized Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin’s letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing him of raising “imaginary concerns” motivated by politics. Pradhan clarified that the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 does not mandate the imposition of any specific language on students, particularly Hindi in Tamil Nadu.
MK Stalin had written to Prime Minister Modi regarding the release of ‘Samagra Shiksha’ funds for Tamil Nadu. In his letter, Stalin raised concerns over Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s statement that the funds would not be released until the state adopts the three-language policy as outlined in NEP 2020.