Only Marathi & English be taught in schools: Raj Thackeray to govt
Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray has launched a fresh salvo in his ongoing battle to promote the use of Marathi language in the state. In a recent letter to the state government, Thackeray has demanded a written order that only two languages – Marathi and English – be taught from Class 1 onwards in state board schools.
The government had previously announced its intention to limit the number of languages taught in schools to only these two, but Thackeray believes that the government’s intentions are not being carried out in practice. “The government has made the announcement, but there is no written order,” Thackeray said in his letter. “This is just an eye-wash and the government is not serious about implementing this decision.”
Thackeray’s demand is based on his assertion that the language taught in schools is a reflection of the state’s culture and identity. He believes that the current situation, where multiple languages are taught in schools, is leading to a dilution of Marathi culture and identity.
The MNS chief has given the government a deadline of two weeks to issue a written order implementing the decision. If the government fails to do so, Thackeray has warned that the MNS will launch an agitation to force the government to implement its decision.
Thackeray’s demand has sparked a debate in the state, with many opposing the idea of limiting the number of languages taught in schools. Critics argue that the move is discriminatory and will harm the interests of students from non-Marathi speaking communities.
The government, on the other hand, has maintained that it is committed to promoting the use of Marathi language in the state. In a statement, the government said that it is “sincere” about implementing the decision to limit the number of languages taught in schools and has already begun the process of making necessary changes.
While the debate rages on, Thackeray remains resolute in his demand. In his letter, he has also demanded that the government take steps to promote the use of Marathi language in government offices and public places.
The MNS chief’s move is seen as part of the party’s efforts to promote Marathi language and culture in the state. The party has been vocal about its demands to promote Marathi language and culture, and has launched several agitations in the past to achieve its goals.
Thackeray’s demand has also sparked a debate about the role of languages in shaping the identity of a community. While some argue that the use of multiple languages is a reflection of a community’s diversity and tolerance, others argue that it is a threat to the dominant language and culture.
The debate is likely to continue, with Thackeray and his supporters on one side and the opposition and critics on the other. However, one thing is clear – the demand for a written order limiting the number of languages taught in schools is not going to go away anytime soon.
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