Three-language model faces political pushback as Sanjay Raut reiterates firm opposition, sparks fresh controversy
by Utsav RoyJust days after Maharashtra’s government decided to revoke orders related to the implementation of the three-language policy, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut reiterated on Wednesday, July 2, that his party would reject such a policy in the future as well.
In response to widespread opposition against introducing Hindi in Maharashtra’s schools from grades 1 through 5, the state cabinet on Sunday withdrew two government orders (GRs) concerning the three-language policy. Following this, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced the formation of a committee led by educationist Narendra Jadhav to explore future steps regarding language instruction.
Addressing the media, Raut criticized the move, stating, “Fadnavis loves forming committees and SITs but rarely takes decisive action.” While acknowledging Jadhav’s reputation as an economist, Raut dismissed the committee’s relevance, emphasizing that his party would not accept the three-language policy in any future scenario.
Regarding the upcoming ‘Marathi Vijay Diwas’ event on July 5, organized jointly by Shiv Sena (UBT) and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) in Mumbai, Raut shared that discussions were underway between leaders from both groups. He praised Marathi citizens for the successful withdrawal of the GRs, calling his party merely the event’s organizers. He also mentioned consultation with MNS chief Raj Thackeray and Shiv Sena leader Uddhav Thackeray.
With limited time remaining, Raut explained the challenge of inviting everyone personally.
He further accused the Fadnavis government of using money, intimidation, and agencies like the ED, CBI, and Election Commission to create divisions within Shiv Sena and NCP. He also criticized the Narendra Modi-led central government over handling of the Pahalgam terror attack and failure to conclusively link Pakistan to terror activities in India.
Highlighting a grave issue, Raut pointed out that over 1,000 farmers in Maharashtra have committed suicide in the last three months, questioning if the prime minister is aware. He also accused the government of inadequate communication regarding the Ahmedabad plane crash.
When asked about the upcoming Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) meeting in Delhi and its influence on BJP, Raut remarked, “RSS and BJP share a brotherly bond. The BJP’s strength today stems largely from the efforts of RSS workers, and if RSS chooses, it can teach BJP a lesson.”