Union Minister Defends Tamil Language Amid Hindi Imposition Claims
Union Minister's Remarks on Language Policy
On Wednesday, Union Minister L. Murugan stated that the central government has never imposed Hindi on any state. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for expanding opportunities for Tamil candidates in central recruitment examinations. Speaking to reporters, Murugan emphasized that the government has not forced Hindi anywhere. It was only after Modi took office that candidates were allowed to take paramilitary recruitment exams in Tamil. He also highlighted the global recognition of the Tamil language, noting that the Thirukkural has been translated into over 35 languages worldwide.
His comments came in response to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin's recent accusations against the central government for allegedly imposing Hindi in the state, particularly under the guise of the 'One Language, Three Scripts' policy. Stalin claimed that the BJP-led central government is writing difficult Hindi names in English and Tamil scripts, warning against the BJP's obsession with imposing Hindi.
Stalin's Criticism of Hindi Imposition
In a post on X, Stalin criticized the BJP government for imposing Hindi, stating that it has crossed all limits in its zeal to enforce the language. He accused the central government of adopting a repugnant policy of 'One Language, Three Scripts,' where Hindi names are directly written in Tamil and English scripts. He cited examples of this imposition, such as the BJP's labeling of the Tiruchirappalli railway division office as 'Duty Gate' in three scripts. He also objected to the naming of EPFO offices as 'Provident Fund Bhavan.'
Ongoing Tensions Between State and Central Government
The ongoing tension between the state and central government continues, with the DMK-led administration accusing the BJP of imposing Hindi. Meanwhile, the state has implemented a two-language formula in its education policy. This situation unfolds as the state prepares for assembly elections later this year, where the DMK-led coalition aims to maintain its hold against the AIADMK-BJP alliance.