Title: Only Marathi & English be taught in schools: Raj Thackeray to govt
In a recent development, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray has written to the state government demanding a written order to ensure that only two languages – Marathi and English – are taught from Class 1 onwards in state board schools. This comes after the government declared this decision earlier, but failed to issue a written order, according to Thackeray.
In his letter, Thackeray has warned the government that if they roll back this decision, the MNS will launch an agitation to protect the rights of the Marathi people. He has also sought an immediate response from the government on this matter, saying that the delay in issuing the written order has caused confusion among parents and school authorities.
Thackeray’s demand for a written order is based on the Maharashtra Official Language Act, 1964, which declares Marathi as the official language of the state. He argues that by teaching English from Class 1 onwards, the government is undermining the importance of Marathi as the official language. He also claims that the government’s decision to teach multiple languages from a young age is a result of the influence of foreign powers and the so-called “English imperialism”.
The MNS chief’s demand has sparked a heated debate in the state, with many opposing his views and arguing that the government should not restrict the education system in such a way. Critics have pointed out that in today’s globalized world, knowledge of multiple languages is essential for academic and professional success. They have also argued that restricting the education system to only two languages will limit the opportunities for students and the state’s economic growth.
However, Thackeray has remained steadfast in his stance, saying that the state government must prioritize the interests of the Marathi people and take steps to promote the official language. He has also claimed that his party will continue to fight for the rights of the Marathi people, and will not back down in the face of opposition.
The controversy surrounding Thackeray’s demand has left many wondering about the implications for the state’s education system. Some have argued that the restriction on the number of languages taught could lead to a decline in the quality of education, while others have pointed out that it could also lead to a loss of cultural diversity and identity.
In recent years, there have been several instances of protests and agitations by the MNS and other organizations demanding the promotion of Marathi and the official language. In 2018, the MNS had launched a agitation against the use of English in state board schools, demanding that English be restricted to Class 8 onwards.
The state government had earlier declared that Marathi and English would be the only two languages taught from Class 1 onwards in state board schools, but did not issue a written order. This has led to confusion among parents and school authorities, and Thackeray’s demand for a written order is an attempt to clarify the situation.
In conclusion, Raj Thackeray’s demand for a written order to restrict the teaching of languages in state board schools to only Marathi and English has sparked a heated debate in the state. While some have supported his views, others have opposed them, arguing that restricting the education system to only two languages will limit the opportunities for students and the state’s economic growth. The state government must now take a decision on this matter, and ensure that the education system in the state is protected and promoted.
Source: https://x.com/RajThackeray/status/1930208483518857496
