Tamil Nadu's two-language stand: Ex-CM urges centre to drop Trilingual fund conditions

Tamil Nadu's longstanding opposition to the three-language formula is once again in the spotlight, with Chief Minister M.K. Stalin condemning Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's alleged stance on linking education funds to the state's acceptance of the National Education Policy (NEP). The controversy reignites a decades-old debate over linguistic policy in the region.

Stalin Accuses Pradhan of Blackmail

Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has strongly criticized Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, accusing him of blackmailing Tamil Nadu by allegedly withholding education funds until the state accepts the three-language formula outlined in the NEP. Stalin quoted Pradhan as stating that Tamil Nadu must comply with the Indian Constitution and adhere to the three-language policy. Stalin views this as an unacceptable imposition and has asserted that the people of Tamil Nadu will not tolerate such pressure.

Tamil Nadu's Two-Language Policy

Since 1967, Tamil Nadu has resolutely followed a two-language policy, which includes Tamil and English. This decision, spearheaded by then Chief Minister C.N. Annadurai, has been upheld by successive governments, reflecting a deep-seated sentiment against the imposition of Hindi. The state government has firmly maintained that this policy adequately equips students for both regional identity and global communication.

Political Reactions

The issue has drawn strong reactions from various political parties in Tamil Nadu. Allies of the ruling DMK, including the Congress, Left parties, and VCK, have condemned Pradhan's stance. Principal opposition AIADMK has reaffirmed its commitment to the two-language policy, emphasizing it will never deviate from this position. Tamil Nadu BJP president K. Annamalai questioned why state government school children shouldn't learn three languages when children of ministers can.

Underlying Tensions and Future Implications

This latest dispute underscores the ongoing tensions between the central government's push for a uniform education policy and Tamil Nadu's determination to protect its linguistic identity and state autonomy. With the state government standing firm on its two-language policy and its opposition to the NEP, the conflict over education funding and linguistic policy is likely to persist.