Unity in Diversity: India's Language Debate

The language debate in India is highlighted by Trinamool Congress leader Derek O'Brien, emphasizing the 'unity in diversity' with 22 constitutionally recognized languages. O'Brien criticized the central government's stance, while TMC member Sagarika Ghose encouraged appreciation for all languages, defending English as a crucial link and global advantage.

In the latest chapter of India's ongoing language debate, Trinamool Congress leader Derek O'Brien underscored the country's linguistic diversity, pointing to 22 constitutionally recognized languages out of the 19,500 tongues spoken across the nation.

In a video statement, O'Brien accused the central government of failing to recognize that 97% of Indians speak one of these recognized languages as their mother tongue, criticizing comments by Home Minister Amit Shah that were perceived as dismissive of the English language's role.

Echoing O'Brien's sentiment, TMC Rajya Sabha member Sagarika Ghose asserted that English remains a valuable link language that provides aspirational and global advantages, stressing that no Indian should feel ashamed of any language.

(With inputs from agencies.)