Shinde Accuses Sena-UBT of ‘Double-Faced’ Politics in Hindi Language Debate

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has criticized the Shiv Sena (UBT) amidst the ongoing controversy surrounding the Maharashtra government’s stance on Hindi language instruction in schools. Shinde accused the party of employing ‘double-faced’ political tactics. He stated that those who engage in such practices lack the moral standing to demand the resignation of Minister Dada Bhuse. Shinde referenced the earlier mandate under a previous Chief Minister, which made Marathi, English, and Hindi compulsory, as per the Raghunath Mashelkar Committee’s recommendations. He highlighted the shift in the party’s position, contrasting their stance while in power with their current opposition. This response follows Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray’s call for Dada Bhuse’s resignation, criticizing the ‘imposition’ of Hindi in schools. Thackeray has emphasized the importance of avoiding the forced introduction of any language, as he believes it places an undue burden on students. He advocates for improving existing educational structures rather than adding language mandates. Meanwhile, NCP chief Sharad Pawar has also weighed in, suggesting that while Hindi has widespread use across the country, it should not be compulsory at the primary level. Pawar believes Hindi instruction should be introduced after Class 5, emphasizing the need to assess the manageable linguistic load on young learners and prevent the marginalization of their mother tongue.