Maharashtra Withdraws Controversial Language Policy Amid Public Backlash

In a significant political move, Union Minister Ramdas Athawale lauded the Maharashtra government for retracting its contentious three-language policy, which mandated Hindi in Marathi schools. Speaking in Raipur, Athawale remarked that the cancellation preempted potential agitations, highlighting both the respect for Hindi as a national language and local opposition to linguistic mandates.

The policy initially drew severe criticism after its implementation on April 16. As schools were compelled to adopt Hindi as a third language, public backlash surged. By June 17, the government had amended the resolution to allow alternatives if supported by a group of 20 students. Finally, on June 24, CM Devendra Fadnavis announced the formal withdrawal of the mandate and initiated consultations with experts and stakeholders.

The language policy isn't the only hot topic. Athawale has also voiced support for the central government's decision to conduct a caste-based census. He critiqued the Congress for not pursuing the initiative when in power and emphasized its importance in understanding caste dynamics post-independence for improved socio-economic planning.

(With inputs from agencies.)