Language Politics in India: A Battle for Cultural Identity

The DMK in Tamil Nadu refutes claims of anti-Hindi sentiments amidst debates on the three-language policy and political delimitation. They advocate for the protection of regional languages while welcoming Hindi speakers. Opposition highlights concerns over political divisiveness and asserts Tamil Nadu's historic stance on language policies.

In an ongoing controversy surrounding India's three-language policy and political delimitation, DMK Member of Parliament Tiruchi Siva clarified the party's stance on Hindi. He emphasized that the party does not harbor animosity towards the language but feels a strong obligation to safeguard Tamil, the regional mother tongue.

Highlighting Tamil Nadu's historical welcoming of people from Hindi-speaking regions, Siva stressed the need to resist Hindi imposition. Amidst this, the DMK also faces the issue of political representation loss due to population-based delimitation. Siva asserted that Tamil Nadu's efforts in family planning should not translate to diminished political influence.

Meanwhile, DMK MP Kanimozhi responded to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's remarks about Tamil politics being divisive. She dismissed his criticisms as unfounded and pointed out Tamil Nadu's longstanding advocacy for a two-language policy since the 1930s, highlighting its inclusive political history contrasted with perceived divisive governance in Uttar Pradesh.

(With inputs from agencies.)