Opposing imposition: On teaching Hindi in Maharashtra

The announcement of the BJP-led government in Maharashtra that English and Marathi medium schools will begin teaching Hindi as a third language from Class 1, as part of the implementation of the National Education Policy 2020, is running into significant political opposition. Previously, Hindi was introduced as a third language only from Class 6 onwards. Schools with other mediums of instruction have already been following the three-language formula from Class 1. While some view the announcement as an instance of Hindi imposition, others fear its potential in undermining Marathi. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis defended the move, stating that Hindi serves as an acceptable language of communication across India. But there are concerns about the practical challenges of this mandate: the extensive logistics involved in teacher recruitment and training, besides salary costs. Media reports and social media chatter have pointed to an emerging hostility towards Hindi, which could be a response to the perceived imposition. There is resentment that the move is an effort to appease the sizeable population of native Hindi speakers settled in Maharashtra. Historically, the State has witnessed a strong regional political identity, epitomised by the Shiv Sena since the 1960s. This identity has emphasised Marathi pride, cultural assertion, and prioritisation of local employment. Yet, unlike Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra has not exhibited overt hostility towards Hindi. Even the Shiv Sena, which has targeted various groups — south Indians, Muslims, and north Indian migrant workers — at different times, did not cultivate animosity towards Hindi. The current resentment, therefore, seems less organic and more a product of the BJP’s centralising agenda, which seeks uniformity in a culturally and linguistically diverse nation.

While the Constitution is unitary in structure, it recognises and accommodates diversity in numerous ways. Previous centralising efforts by Congress governments included the promotion of Hindi, but there was enough institutional flexibility to balance divergent interests. Though the BJP now governs with a reduced mandate, it has managed to secure support from allies for its centralising vision, provoking resistance in States such as Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra. Meanwhile, the educational landscape is undergoing a radical transformation with developments in AI and neuroscience. Instead of creating divisions, the Fadnavis government would do well to build consensus to address the evolving demands of school and higher education.