By Alfina Jimmy
Language has become a contentious issue in India, with rising tensions over language imposition, erosion of mother tongues, and political identity debates in states like Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Assam, and Maharashtra. These tensions reflect how language remains a powerful symbol of inclusion or exclusion, shaping the country's socio-political landscape.
*The Debate Over Language Imposition*
The central government's push for Hindi imposition has sparked resistance in non-Hindi-speaking states, particularly in the south. Tamil Nadu has been at the forefront of this resistance, with protests against the teaching of Hindi in schools. The state government has maintained a two-language policy (Tamil and English), rejecting the Three-Language Formula that recommends studying Hindi, English, and a regional language.
*Erosion of Mother Tongues*
The decline of regional languages in favour of dominant languages like Hindi or English has raised concerns about cultural identity and heritage. In Assam, the Assamese-Bengali conflict has led to tensions over language recognition and cultural preservation. Similarly, in Karnataka, pro-Kannada groups have demanded greater recognition and use of Kannada in official and public spheres.
*Language and Political Identity*
Language has become a crucial aspect of regional identity and politics. Parties like the DMK in Tamil Nadu and the Shiv Sena in Maharashtra have championed the cause of regional languages and cultures to mobilise support. The BJP's promotion of Hindi has also been seen as a threat to regional identities, exacerbating tensions between the centre and states.
*Consequences of Language Tensions*
Language tensions have significant consequences for India's socio-political landscape. They can lead to:
- *Social and Cultural Divisions*: Exacerbating existing fault lines between different linguistic and cultural groups.
- *Political Polarisation*: Language debates can become highly politicised, leading to polarisation and conflict between different groups.
- *Governance Challenges*: Language tensions can pose significant challenges for governance, particularly in multilingual states.
*Examples of Language Tensions*
- *Karnataka*: Pro-Kannada groups have demanded greater recognition and use of Kannada in official and public spheres. The Karnataka government has also taken steps to promote Kannada, with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah emphasising its importance as a business language.
- *Tamil Nadu*: The state has a long history of resistance to Hindi imposition, dating back to the 1930s. The DMK and other regional parties have used language as a rallying point to assert Tamil identity and culture.
- *Assam*: The Assamese-Bengali conflict has led to tensions over language recognition and cultural preservation. The Assam Accord of 1985 attempted to address these concerns, but tensions persist.
*References*
- *The Indian Express*: "Language Agitations & Identity Politics: Key Factors & Implications"
- *News18*: "More States Join Language War Amid Tamil Nadu-Centre's 'Hindi Imposition' Spat"
- *ThePrint*: "Karnataka language militancy a sign of losing dominance—Tamil, English, now Hindi rule streets”
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