Shinde Slams Sena-UBT Over Hindi Language Dispute, Accuses ‘Double-Faced’ Approach

Amidst the ongoing discussions surrounding the Maharashtra government’s policies on Hindi language education, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has directed criticism towards Shiv Sena (UBT). Shinde accused the party of engaging in ‘double-faced’ political behavior. He stated that the party’s criticism lacked credibility due to their own past actions regarding language policies. Shinde brought up the prior implementation of mandatory Marathi, English, and Hindi instruction, as per the Raghunath Mashelkar Committee’s recommendations. This follows calls for the resignation of Minister Dada Bhuse by Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray, who has voiced strong objections against the ‘imposition’ of Hindi in schools. Thackeray has maintained that no language should be imposed on students, stressing the need to improve the existing curriculum. Meanwhile, Sharad Pawar, a prominent NCP leader, has stated that Hindi should not be compulsory in primary education, acknowledging the importance of considering the burden on students and preserving their mother tongue. Pawar believes that the focus should be on introducing Hindi after class 5.