CPI(M) leader Prakash Karat has criticized the Centre for being “insensitive” to the concerns of southern states regarding the three-language formula in the National Education Policy (NEP), advocating instead for equal importance to all languages.

Karat argued that no language should be imposed, and if given equal status, one might naturally evolve as the lingua franca. The NEP’s recommendation that students learn at least two Indian languages has reignited debates over Hindi imposition, especially in Tamil Nadu, which has historically opposed the policy.

Karat emphasized that education falls under the Concurrent List, granting states an equal say in policy decisions. He noted that even Kerala’s Left Democratic Front (LDF) government has concerns over the Centre’s increasing encroachment into state-run education systems.

“Tamil Nadu’s fears arise from the insistence on a three-language formula, which they see as an attempt to promote Hindi,” he said. “Beyond language, there is also concern over the imposition of other ideological values through the NEP.”

Karat underscored India’s linguistic diversity, recognizing the 22 official languages in the Constitution. He asserted that languages should develop organically through social interaction, rather than being mandated.

“You cannot declare a language as official and expect universal acceptance. English gained international prominence because people found it useful. If Hindi naturally reaches that level, people will adopt it willingly, but it is not there yet,” he explained.

He urged the Centre to respect linguistic diversity, stating that eventually, one language may emerge as a common medium of communication, but it should happen through natural evolution, not enforcement.

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