Standing Firm: Tamil Nadu's Battle Against Language Imposition

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Stalin denounces the central government's alleged language imposition, advocating for Tamil and English as the state's only official languages. He asserts that financial incentives won't sway the state's stance. The issue is framed as a matter of ethnic pride and cultural preservation.

On Tuesday, Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister M K Stalin robustly criticized the central government for perceived language imposition and alleged financial bias against the state, emphasizing the necessity of solid initiatives to permanently resolve the matter. Stalin, speaking on a motion regarding the language policy in the state assembly, affirmed that Tamil and English are the sole languages supported under Tamil Nadu's policy, a stance firmly defended by legislators.

Addressing the assembly, Stalin reiterated his objection to integrating Hindi for financial gain offered by the Centre, emphasizing the cultural and ethnic significance of maintaining Tamil's prominence. He recalled the 1968 introduction of the 2-language policy under CN Annadurai, calling it a constitutional gift and cultural protection measure against language hegemony.

The CM announced plans for initiatives to safeguard state autonomy and rights, stressing that only through these efforts can Tamil culture and language thrive. He urged opposition leader Edappadi K Palaniswami to raise concerns during his Delhi visit and critiqued the Centre's practices threatening state autonomy and federalism.

(With inputs from agencies.)