Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has voiced strong opposition to the state government’s decision to introduce Hindi as a third language from Class 1, suggesting instead that it should begin from Class 5. Speaking to reporters in Mumbai on Tuesday, Pawar emphasized that students should focus on learning Marathi from the start of their schooling to ensure fluency in reading and writing the state’s primary language.
The controversy stems from a recently amended government order stating that Hindi will generally be taught as the third language to students in Marathi and English medium schools from Classes 1 to 5. Although the government clarified that Hindi is not compulsory and students could opt for other Indian languages if at least 20 students per class agree, the policy has stirred political and public debate.
Pawar, clarifying his stance, said, “Hindi should not be introduced from Classes 1 to 4. It should begin only from Class 5. No one is against any language, but we should not overload young minds. Marathi should be the primary focus in early schooling.”
His statement follows a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who said a final decision on the three-language formula would only be taken after consultations with stakeholders such as language experts, writers, and political leaders.
Adding to the chorus of dissent, veteran actor Sayaji Shinde also expressed his disagreement with the move. “Students must be allowed to master Marathi first. Hindi, if needed, should be introduced only after Class 5,” he stated. Shinde, who has acted in multiple regional and national films, called for the withdrawal of the current decision, calling Marathi a “very rich language” that should be given priority in the formative years.
As the debate continues, the government is expected to hold further consultations to reassess the educational implications of the policy amid growing concerns over linguistic balance and student stress.
