Pune: Pimpri-Chinchwad MNS Protests Mandatory Hindi Language Rule in Schools
Pimpri-Chinchwad, 18th April 2025: Members of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) staged a strong protest today against the Maharashtra government’s recent decision to make Hindi a compulsory third language in the state school curriculum from Classes 1 to 5, starting in the academic year 2025–26. The party has condemned the decision as an attack on Marathi identity and linguistic rights. The protest took place near the Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar statue at Pimpri Chowk.
The decision stems from the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which is being rolled out across the country. According to a Government Resolution (GR) issued on April 16, 2025, the state education department has mandated Hindi as the third language in primary schools.
Reacting strongly to the move, MNS leaders tore copies of the GR in protest, calling the decision unjust and a direct imposition on Marathi-speaking students. MNS Pimpri-Chinchwad City President Sachin Chikhale asserted that the decision is a blow to the pride of Marathi people. “Making Hindi compulsory undermines the federal structure of the country. If a third language is required, it should be optional, not mandatory,” he said.
The protest also highlighted concerns that states opposing the central government’s linguistic directives are being threatened or pressured. The MNS warned that unless the decision is withdrawn immediately, the party will launch an intensified state-wide agitation.
Prominent party members Mayur Chinchwade, Nitin Chavan, Nilesh Netke, Tukaram Shinde, and others were present at the protest.
