The ongoing language controversy in Tamil Nadu has intensified, with state BJP chief K Annamalai citing Madurai-born Sundar Pichai to criticize the ruling DMK for its stance against the National Education Policy (NEP) and allegations of imposing Hindi. Annamalai shared a clip of Pichai discussing his experience learning Hindi in school, asserting that if the tech leader could master three languages, students in Tamil Nadu should have the same opportunity.
In a comprehensive statement, Annamalai condemned Tamil Nadu Minister PTR Thyagarajan and DMK officials for allowing their children to learn three languages while mandating that government school students learn only two.
Annamalai highlighted that PTR Palanivel Thiagarajan had mentioned a two-language formula for his sons’ education without specifying the languages involved. “Is the TN Government’s two-language formula English and either French or Spanish?” Annamalai questioned, amplifying his concerns on social media.
The BJP leader challenged the Tamil Nadu government on its refusal to allow government school students to learn a third language—be it Indian or foreign—alongside Tamil and English in line with the NEP’s provisions.
Furthermore, Annamalai pointed out that Sundar Pichai’s educational background included three languages, including Hindi, contrary to claims made by DMK officials.
This debate escalated after Minister Thyagarajan criticized the BJP-led Centre, suggesting that the NEP was flawed and not feasible. He likened its implementation to trying to teach different grades in the same manner.
Thyagarajan also remarked that the Centre has struggled with the implementation of a two-language policy across numerous states, questioning its authority to dictate changes in areas that have successfully adopted a two-language system.
He asserted that the present infrastructure and funding conditions make implementing the NEP unachievable. Thyagarajan confirmed that his sons benefited from a two-language policy during their education.
In response, Annamalai posed questions regarding his sons’ citizenship status, urging the DMK minister to cease what he termed “drama” concerning the policy’s implementation.
This language dispute has become a significant political issue, amplified by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin’s comments labeling the NEP as a “saffronised policy” aimed at promoting Hindi and undermining the state’s education system instead of enhancing national development.
Published On:
Mar 13, 2025
