Tamil Nadu Polls: CM MK Stalin Slams Three-Language Formula as ‘One-Sided’

The language debate has resurfaced in Tamil Nadu after Chief Minister M. K. Stalin accused the Union government of attempting to impose Hindi through the new Central Board of Secondary Education curriculum framework.

Taking to X, Stalin targeted the BJP-led NDA government, alleging that the policy-introduced under the National Education Policy 2020-is being used as a tool for linguistic centralisation. He argued that while the three-language formula appears balanced on paper, it disproportionately pressures students in non-Hindi speaking states to learn Hindi.

'One-Sided Policy' Claim

Stalin questioned the lack of reciprocity in the framework, asking whether students in Hindi-speaking regions would be required to learn southern languages like Tamil, Telugu, or Kannada. According to him, the absence of such provisions exposes what he described as a "discriminatory" and "one-sided" approach.

He further claimed that the three-language formula is being used as a "covert mechanism" to expand Hindi in non-Hindi regions, reviving long-standing concerns in Tamil Nadu over linguistic identity and educational autonomy.

Criticism Over Tamil in Central Schools

The Chief Minister also criticised the Centre's record on promoting Tamil in centrally-run schools. He pointed out that Tamil has not been made mandatory in institutions run by the Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan, and alleged a shortage of Tamil teachers.

Calling it "hypocrisy," Stalin said the government cannot claim to promote Indian languages while failing to support regional languages in its own institutions.

Focus on Future Skills

Linking language policy to education priorities, Stalin stressed the need for students to focus on emerging fields such as artificial intelligence and AVGC (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, and Comics). He argued that adding compulsory language burdens could limit time for skill-based learning crucial for future careers.

Political Pressure on Rivals

Stalin also turned his attention to political opponents, particularly the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, questioning whether they support the Centre's stance. His remarks put pressure on regional parties aligned with the NDA to clarify their position on the issue.