PM Modi Addresses Concerns over Hindi Imposition in Tamil Nadu

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently addressed concerns over the alleged imposition of Hindi in Tamil Nadu during an interview with a Tamil website. Modi emphasized that every inch of the country and its languages are sacred, and the National Education Policy allows students to learn Tamil in any school. The government has also made it possible for students to write exams like UPSC and bank exams in Tamil.

Modi expressed his love and respect for the Tamil language, calling it the oldest in the world. When asked about the dominance of Dravidian parties in Tamil Nadu, Modi said the BJP is offering an alternative to the people who want development and change. He criticized corruption, bribery, and dynastic politics, and expressed his vision for a developed India with world-class healthcare and a strong global presence.

However, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK leader MK Stalin strongly criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP. Stalin stated that if PM Modi comes to power again, the country would "go back by 200 years" and that the BJP can never grow in Tamil Nadu. He accused the AIADMK of being an ally of the BJP, saying that a vote for the AIADMK is equivalent to a vote for the BJP. Stalin also criticized former CM Palaniswami for claiming to have received awards from the central government, saying he got them for "being the best of slaves".

In response to the concerns raised by political parties in Tamil Nadu about the alleged push for Hindi in the state, Modi reiterated that the government has no intention of imposing any language and that all Indian languages are equally important. He stated that the National Education Policy 2020 promotes the use of mother tongue or local language as the medium of instruction, especially in the early years of education. Modi reaffirmed the government's commitment to respecting all Indian languages and promoting their growth and development.

Why this matters: The issue of language imposition has been a sensitive topic in Tamil Nadu, with political parties often accusing the central government of pushing for Hindi at the expense of regional languages. Modi's remarks aim to address these concerns and reassure the people of Tamil Nadu that their language and culture will be respected and promoted.

Modi's interview comes amid ongoing political tensions in Tamil Nadu, with the DMK and AIADMK trading barbs over their respective alliances and policies. Stalin's strong criticism of the BJP and Modi highlights the challenges the national party faces in making inroads in the southern state. With the 2024 Lok Sabha elections approaching, the language debate is likely to remain a key issue in Tamil Nadu, with parties on both sides of the political spectrum seeking to capitalize on the sentiments of the people.

Key Takeaways

• PM Modi reassures no Hindi imposition, promotes Tamil in education
• Stalin criticizes BJP, says vote for AIADMK is vote for BJP
• Modi emphasizes respect for all Indian languages, promotes growth
• Language debate likely to be key issue in 2024 Lok Sabha polls
• Modi aims to address concerns over alleged push for Hindi in TN