In the midst of an escalating language controversy, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has openly criticized efforts to impose Hindi as part of the three-language policy under the National Education Policy (NEP 2020). Stalin firmly asserted that he would not permit any measures detrimental to the state’s interests, cautioning the Union government against undermining Tamil identity.
During a recent event, Stalin accused the central government of attempting to stifle Tamil Nadu’s development. He stated, “The growth of the nation is directly linked to the strength of its states. However, this Union government seems intent on hindering that growth, having previously taken away our revenue through GST without providing necessary funds or new initiatives. Allocations intended for joint distribution between the Union and state governments remain unreleased. Despite these challenges, we continue to launch new schemes, and this seems to frustrate them.”
Stalin also condemned the National Education Policy, claiming it disadvantages students from marginalized communities. He pointed out that the NEP is counterproductive to educational access and economic opportunities: “Historically, our people were denied education and reservations were established to ensure social equity and accessibility for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and backward communities. The introduction of NEP appears to threaten this social justice framework and impede the advancement of these groups in Tamil Nadu,” he stated.
Furthermore, he reacted to assertions by the Union Education Minister that claimed the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) was politicizing educational issues. “We allocate funds for the public good, while you seem focused on fostering religious divisions and enforcing Hindi. The claim that Tamil Nadu is losing Rs 5,000 crore due to the non-acceptance of the PM SHRI scheme overlooks our reality. It would take but a moment for us to withhold our tax contributions. Those governing our nation lack the understanding of provision and acquisition. The NEP is not about enhancing education but advancing a linguistic agenda, cleverly disguised as educational reform,” he emphasized.
Concluding his address, Stalin warned the Union government against provoking the sentiments of Tamils, stating, “Do not disturb the beehive. Any challenge to Tamil identity will not be tolerated. As long as the DMK exists, we will fiercely protect the language and identity of Tamil Nadu.”
