Tamil Nadu’s rigid two-language policy disallows people from learning other languages: Governor Ravi

Chennai: Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi on Friday alleged that the state’s “rigid two language policy” was preventing youngsters from learning even other South Indian languages and stressed the need for providing the choice to study more languages, triggering a sharp reaction from the ruling DMK.

During his interaction with entrepreneurs from South Tamil Nadu, the Governor claimed there was a “huge demand” for implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The youth in the region feel hugely deprived of opportunities compared to those from neighbouring states due to the state government’s “rigid two language policy.”

“They feel that unfortunately, in the name of opposition to Hindi, they are not allowed to study even any other South Indian languages. This is indeed unfair. Our youth must have a choice to study language,” the Governor said.

Southern Tamil Nadu is rich in human and natural resources and yet it feels like a neglected backyard, Ravi said, adding that the problems of substance and drug abuse among youth is serious.

The governor’s remarks on language issue come at a time the DMK dispensation is accusing the Union Government of withholding funds for education for not implementing the three-language formula. Chief Minister M K Stalin has made it clear that the state will continue to follow the two-language policy, in force since 1968, and will never accept neither the three-language formula nor NEP 2020.

In a sharp reaction to the Governor’s statement, Law Minister S Regupathy said Ravi should first learn the difference between choice and imposition and asked him not to teach lessons on language to Tamils.

“The Governor is blabbering as he is unable to digest the growth and development of Tamil Nadu. He should stop his politics aimed at demeaning Tamil Nadu. Will the Governor say in which sector Tamil Nadu is lagging behind?” he asked.