As political tension builds over the imposition of Hindi in Maharashtra’s education system, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has taken a firm stand, stating that Hindi should not be made compulsory from Class 1 and should instead be introduced as an optional third language from Class 5.
The controversy follows the announcement of a protest march by the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), led by Raj Thackeray, against the perceived imposition of Hindi in the state’s primary education. The march is scheduled for July 5 in Mumbai and is expected to witness a rare show of unity between Raj Thackeray and his cousin, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray.
Addressing the issue, Ajit Pawar clarified the government's position, stating, “There is no compulsion, and there is no disagreement about the importance of learning one’s mother tongue. Hindi should be considered from Class 5 onward, not from the first standard. Those studying in English-medium schools must still learn Marathi, which remains the only compulsory language.”
Pawar also confirmed that the issue would be discussed further in the upcoming state cabinet meeting. “We are not in favor of making Hindi compulsory from Class 1. A discussion will be held in the cabinet tomorrow to address all concerns,” he added.
Earlier, NCP state president and Ajit Pawar faction leader Sunil Tatkare had echoed similar sentiments. He stressed that the July 5 protest should not be viewed as a political movement. “Everyone, including us, believes Hindi should not be compulsory from the first class. It should be optional from the fifth class. Since this march is being organized by the opposition, no leader from the Nationalist Congress Party will participate,” Tatkare stated.
The march, centered on language policy in schools, has reignited long-standing debates around linguistic identity, cultural autonomy, and educational freedom in Maharashtra. As the date approaches, the event is expected to draw significant public and political attention.