Marathi vs Hindi: AAP Slams Govt Over Class 1 Language Policy Rollout
Mumbai, 18th June 2025: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and its affiliated Parents’ Union have strongly opposed the Maharashtra government’s decision to implement the three-language formula from the first grade, alleging it is a “deception” against Marathi-speaking citizens.
On Tuesday evening, the state government issued an order formalizing the introduction of the three-language policy — including Hindi — starting from Class 1. While the order omits the word “mandatory,” AAP leaders argue that the policy makes Hindi education effectively compulsory for Marathi-speaking students, thereby sidelining regional linguistic priorities.
“There is no central mandate to begin the three-language formula from Class 1 under the National Education Policy (NEP). Despite this, the Maharashtra government has issued orders, forcing Hindi on Marathi children from the very first grade,” said Mukund Kirdat, AAP’s state spokesperson. “They have removed the word ‘mandatory’ just for face value, but in practice, Hindi is being imposed. This is a betrayal of the people of Maharashtra.”
Earlier, Education Minister Deepak Kesarkar Bhuse had publicly stated that the three-language policy would not be imposed from Grade 1, citing feedback from educational experts and public opposition. However, AAP leaders say the latest order contradicts those assurances and reflects a “clear political u-turn.”
“There was no need to rush this decision. We are not against learning multiple languages, but the mother tongue must be given priority. Let the children grow into their language first,” Kirdat added.
The Aam Aadmi Party has demanded that the state government immediately withdraw the order and conduct a wider public consultation before implementing such major education policy changes.
