Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu recently made a controversial statement advocating the need to learn Hindi. This remark has raised eyebrows, especially as several regional states are actively resisting Hindi imposition, calling for the protection of their native languages. In the backdrop of the National Education Policy’s (NEP) two-language framework, Naidu’s stance appears to be in stark contrast to states like Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Karnataka, which have consistently opposed any move to dilute their linguistic heritage.
The Fight Against Hindi Imposition
In recent years, regional states have fiercely defended their languages. Tamil Nadu has long rejected the three-language formula, asserting that Tamil and English suffice for both national and international communication. Karnataka has witnessed protests against making Hindi mandatory in banking and railway services. West Bengal, too, has taken a strong stance on preserving Bengali in administration and education. Against this backdrop, Naidu’s call to embrace Hindi appears out of step with the broader sentiment of the South.
The Threat to Regional Languages
The increasing prominence of Hindi has already led to the decline of many regional languages. Several languages and dialects, once thriving, are now on the brink of extinction due to a systematic shift towards Hindi-centric policies. UNESCO has recognized multiple Indian languages as endangered, and the push for Hindi at the cost of native languages only accelerates this trend. If linguistic diversity continues to erode, it will not only weaken cultural identities but also diminish the rich linguistic plurality that defines India.
Why Not Prioritize English Instead?
Naidu’s statement also raises an important question: if a common language is necessary for national integration, why not prioritize English? English is already a widely accepted medium for education, business, and diplomacy. In a globalized world, proficiency in English offers far greater advantages in employment and international collaboration than Hindi. Unlike Hindi, which is largely confined to the northern belt, English is neutral, widely used, and connects India to the global economy. If the objective is to equip the youth with a language that enhances opportunities, English should be the natural choice.
Naidu Echoing BJP’s Line?
The timing and nature of Naidu’s statement suggest a deeper political alignment with the BJP, TDP’s senior coalition partner in the NDA. The BJP has long championed Hindi as a national language, often pushing policies that favor its dominance. Naidu’s endorsement of Hindi fits neatly into this larger agenda, raising questions about whether his government is prioritizing political considerations over Andhra Pradesh’s linguistic identity.
Delimitation and Southern States’ Concerns
Naidu’s pro-Hindi stance also comes at a time when southern states are already wary of losing political influence due to the upcoming delimitation process. With parliamentary seat redistribution likely to favor Hindi-speaking northern states, many in the South fear a diminishing role in national decision-making. The push for Hindi further exacerbates this concern, making it appear as though the linguistic and political weight of the South is being systematically sidelined.
Conclusion: A Political Move Over People’s Interests?
Chandrababu Naidu’s statement advocating Hindi is not just about language—it is a political move that aligns with the BJP’s long-standing efforts to push Hindi as a unifying force. However, at a time when other regional leaders are fiercely defending their linguistic identities, his remark risks alienating people in Andhra Pradesh and beyond. The South is already grappling with the threat of reduced representation post-delimitation. A push for Hindi, instead of safeguarding regional languages or promoting English for global advantage, only deepens concerns about cultural and political marginalization.
Naidu’s endorsement of Hindi raises an essential question: Is this about genuine linguistic progress, or is he merely echoing the BJP’s larger agenda?
