Chennai: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has strongly criticized the Centre over the National Education Policy, NEP language row, warning that any interference in the state’s linguistic policies would be like “disturbing a beehive.” The statement comes after Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan sent a letter addressing concerns over language implementation in Tamil Nadu.
Stalin’s ‘Beehive’ Warning Over NEP Language Dispute
The ongoing dispute over the National Education Policy’s language provisions has intensified, with Tamil Nadu standing firm against the imposition of Hindi or Sanskrit in the state’s education system. In a direct warning to the Centre, Stalin stated that attempts to enforce linguistic changes in Tamil Nadu would provoke strong resistance.
“The Centre should not make the mistake of disturbing a beehive,” Stalin said. “Tamil Nadu has always resisted language imposition, and our stance on NEP remains unchanged.”
His comments follow a letter from Dharmendra Pradhan urging the state government to reconsider its opposition to certain aspects of the NEP, particularly regarding multilingual education.
Tamil Nadu’s Long-Standing Opposition to Language Imposition
Tamil Nadu has historically opposed policies perceived as an attempt to impose Hindi. Successive governments in the state have maintained a two-language policy, allowing only Tamil and English in educational institutions.
The NEP, introduced by the Centre, promotes a three-language formula, which has been met with strong resistance in Tamil Nadu. Stalin reiterated that Tamil Nadu will not implement any policy that forces an additional language on students.
“The people of Tamil Nadu have always defended their linguistic rights,” Stalin said. “Our opposition to the NEP language row is rooted in historical struggles against language imposition.”
Dharmendra Pradhan’s Letter and Centre’s Stand
In his letter, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan attempted to clarify that the NEP does not mandate any particular language and that students have the freedom to choose their preferred languages. However, Tamil Nadu leaders view this as an indirect attempt to introduce Hindi into the state’s education system.
Pradhan’s letter emphasized the benefits of multilingual education, stating that the three-language formula aims to enhance students’ cognitive abilities and job opportunities. “The NEP does not impose any language but encourages diversity,” the letter read.
Despite these assurances, the Tamil Nadu government remains unconvinced, reiterating that the state’s policy will not change.
Political Reactions and Public Response on NEP Language Row
Stalin’s ‘beehive’ warning has drawn strong reactions from political leaders and scholars. DMK leaders have supported Stalin’s firm stand, while opposition parties have accused the Centre of interfering with state rights.
Public opinion in Tamil Nadu remains overwhelmingly against the three-language policy. Several student groups and cultural organizations have voiced concerns that the NEP could weaken Tamil’s dominance in the state’s educational institutions.
A political analyst commented, “Language is an emotional issue in Tamil Nadu. The Centre should avoid confrontation over the NEP language row to prevent further political tensions.”
What Lies Ahead of the NEP Language Row Controversy?
With both sides refusing to back down, the NEP language controversy is expected to remain a contentious issue in Tamil Nadu. The state government has already indicated that it may pass a resolution rejecting any language-related provisions of the NEP that contradict Tamil Nadu’s existing policies.
Education experts suggest that dialogue between the Centre and Tamil Nadu is necessary to avoid further escalation. “A rigid stance from either side will only deepen the divide,” an education policy expert said.
Conclusion
The NEP language row has once again highlighted the deep-rooted opposition to language imposition in Tamil Nadu. MK Stalin’s ‘beehive’ warning to the Centre underscores the sensitivity of the issue and the political resistance to any forced linguistic changes. As the debate continues, all eyes are on how the Centre responds to Tamil Nadu’s firm stand on language policies.
