Maharashtra U-Turn on Hindi Compulsion Amidst Massive Backlash

The Maharashtra government reversed its decision to mandate Hindi as a compulsory third language in schools. This follows strong opposition from political parties and organizations. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced the formation of a committee to reevaluate the three-language policy, suspending previous resolutions until further review.

NCP-SCP MLA Rohit Pawar sharply criticized the Maharashtra government on Monday over its controversial three-language policy, highlighting the power of collective opposition. Pawar stated that when Marathi journalists and social organizations united against the government resolution, their combined influence forced the government to retract the mandate.

Addressing reporters outside the Maharashtra Assembly, Pawar clarified that the opposition isn't against Hindi per se but is resisting its compulsory imposition in primary schools. 'We aren't opposed to Hindi itself. We're challenging the enforced teaching of Hindi in primary education,' he explained.

Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) leaders protested outside the Assembly, reinforcing criticism of the government's move to 'impose Hindi.' In a statement, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced the cancellation of two orders dated April 16 and June 17 that had aimed for Hindi's compulsory implementation. A committee led by Dr Narendra Jadhav will evaluate the policy further, he noted.

(With inputs from agencies.)