Amid the ongoing debate ignited by Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray over the state government’s move to make Hindi a compulsory third language in Marathi-medium schools, mid-day.com spoke to students and parents to gauge public opinion on the contentious issue.
A government resolution (GR) issued by the Maharashtra School Education Department on Tuesday sparked sharp criticism from Thackeray, who questioned whether similar language mandates would be implemented in other states such as Kerala, Tamil Nadu or even Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. He called the decision “politically motivated” and unnecessary, stating that two languages, Marathi and English, are sufficient for students to learn in Maharashtra.
However, opinions from the ground reveal a mixed response over the issue.
A parent of a primary school student at Divine Child High School in Andheri shared, “Introducing Hindi as a third language is a reasonable decision, given that it’s widely spoken across India. If international schools can include languages such as French or Spanish, then opting for Hindi, which has national relevance, is a practical choice by the state government.”
However, another parent, whose child studies in Class 2 at Don Bosco School in Naigaon, voiced his concern over the proposal. “Every Maharashtrian should know and speak Marathi to preserve the legacy of our language. Mumbaikars must be fluent in Marathi. The government must consider the cultural and linguistic sentiments of the state before making such decisions. This should not become a political agenda.”
Students, too, were divided on the matter. A Class 10 student from St Paul High School in Dadar remarked, “Hindi should be optional. Instead of enforcing it, students should have the option to learn international languages such as German or French.”
However, Advait Adsul, another Class 10 student from the same school, feels otherwise. “Hindi should be compulsory. Along with English, it is spoken in most parts of India. It’s beneficial for all students, regardless of their medium of instruction.”
Adding to the dissenting voices, MNS leader Sandeep Deshpande stated, “Two languages are more than enough: English, which is globally spoken, and Marathi, the mother tongue. Introducing a third compulsory language is unnecessary.”
As the debate intensifies, the move by the state government continues to draw both support and criticism, reflecting broader questions about identity, practicality, and politics in education.
