Language Policy Controversy Escalates: Sitharaman Criticizes DMK

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman accuses DMK of politicizing the three-language policy, causing educational setbacks in Tamil Nadu. The controversy intensified with opposition walkouts and harsh exchanges in the Lok Sabha over the New Education Policy. Sitharaman criticized for highlighting selective data, leading to heightened tensions.

During a heated session in the Lok Sabha, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman criticized the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) for opposing the Union government's three-language policy. She accused the Tamil Nadu government of fostering a "political mess" and depriving children of their "right to learn" multiple languages.

Sitharaman defended remarks made by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, who had called the DMK's protest "uncivilised." The Finance Minister shared her experiences in Tamil Nadu, claiming that learning Hindi and Sanskrit triggers undue targeting.

Tensions escalated as the INDIA bloc staged a walkout in protest. Opposition leaders, including Congress MPs Gaurav Gogoi and KC Venugopal, condemned Sitharaman's statements, accusing her of misrepresenting data to defame Tamil Nadu. Union Minister Pradhan had earlier withdrawn controversial language used during the debate.