Amid municipal corporation elections in Maharashtra, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis emphasized that only Marathi is compulsory in the state’s school education system. He highlighted the importance of preserving Marathi as the soul of Maharashtra and stated that no other Indian language will be mandatory, with decisions on introducing additional languages pending a committee report. Fadnavis made these remarks at the 99th Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan.
His comments come following opposition to the introduction of Hindi as a third language alongside Marathi and English, a move that was later retracted by the government due to protests. Fadnavis praised Marathi as a classical language and noted that it has been granted Classical Language Status by the Modi government. He stressed the need for promoting Marathi nationwide while also advocating for respect towards all languages, both Indian and foreign.
Fadnavis acknowledged the contributions of the Warkari sect and Saint literature in enriching Marathi literature, describing Marathi as a language that fosters connections and values. He underlined the role of writers in guiding society and upholding democratic expression in the literary realm. The Chief Minister affirmed the government’s dedication to preserving and promoting the Marathi language, citing its historical and cultural significance.
