Language Row in Parliament: John Brittas Speaks Out Against Hindi Imposition

CPI(M) MP John Brittas raises concerns over the increased use of Hindi in Parliament, alleging it as an orchestrated move to make Hindi the de facto language. Highlighting the disadvantage faced by non-Hindi speaking MPs, he stresses the need for linguistic sensitivity, citing historical and legislative references.

MP John Brittas has voiced concerns about a growing trend in Parliament: the preference for Hindi by many MPs, particularly from the treasury benches, which he argues disadvantages non-Hindi speaking representatives. Brittas, speaking with PTI, labeled this as a concerted effort to designate Hindi as the primary language of parliamentary discourse.

Brittas highlighted a shift in practices, pointing out that ministers, who previously responded in English when addressed in English, are now predominantly using Hindi. This change contravenes what he describes as a 'healthy precedent,' and he accused certain members of the government of receiving signals to switch to Hindi during sessions.

Supporting Brittas, former Infosys CFO Mohandas Pai criticized the central government's 'excessive use of Hindi.' Brittas recalls a time when English dominated parliamentary discourse, urging current leaders to respect linguistic diversity and abide by the Official Languages Act of 1963.

(With inputs from agencies.)