The 98th Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan, held in Delhi, concluded with a strong focus on Maharashtra’s rising crime rates, the preservation of Marathi schools, and the safeguarding of the Marathi language. Over three days at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Sahitya Nagari in Talkatora Stadium, delegates passed 12 resolutions addressing critical issues affecting Maharashtra and the Marathi-speaking community.
Rising Crime Rates in Maharashtra
A primary resolution expressed deep concern over the increasing crime rates in Maharashtra, particularly incidents involving student deaths and violence against women. Delegates urged both the Maharashtra and central governments to implement immediate and stringent measures to enforce law and order, ensuring a safe environment for all citizens. This call to action was underscored by recent distressing events in Parbhani and Beed, highlighting the urgent need for decisive interventions to curb criminal activities.
Preservation of Marathi Educational Institutions
The conference emphasized the critical need to preserve Marathi-medium schools, advocating against their conversion into English-medium institutions. Resolutions called for enhanced government support to modernize these schools and revitalize libraries in both rural and urban areas. Delegates also stressed the importance of expediting the operationalization of the first Marathi university in Riddhapur by allocating sufficient financial and human resources.
Promotion and Protection of the Marathi Language
Among the resolutions was a proposal to establish a Marathi language study center at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) in Delhi. Another recommendation suggested shifting the government-observed Marathi Language Fortnight from January to February 27 through March 14, aligning it with historically significant dates for the language. Concerns were also raised regarding the inclusion of Konkani as a mandatory language in Goa’s State Staff Commission exams, a move perceived as unjust to Marathi speakers.
Government’s Commitment to Marathi Language and Culture
Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde, addressed the gathering, underscoring the importance of language preservation. He stated, “Language is our identity, our pride. If our language ceases to exist, so does our culture. It is our collective responsibility to nurture and protect Marathi.” Shinde highlighted the government’s commitment to promoting Marathi, noting the allocation of ₹10 crore for the Kusumagraj Marathi Study Centre at JNU.
Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar announced plans to construct a grand cultural center for the Marathi community in New Delhi. He assured that the government would allocate sufficient funds for this initiative in the upcoming budget, reinforcing its dedication to preserving Marathi heritage and culture.
Call to Action for Implementing Resolutions
Sammelan President Dr. Tara Bhawalkar called for concrete steps to enhance bilingual education in border areas and promote widespread learning of Marathi. She emphasized, “Language is the carrier of culture,” and urged all stakeholders to effectively implement the resolutions passed during the conference.
The 98th Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan served as a pivotal platform for addressing pressing issues related to crime, education, and language preservation in Maharashtra. The collective voice of the Marathi literary community resonated with a call for immediate action to safeguard the state’s cultural and social fabric.
