The dispute between the Central Government and the Tamil Nadu DMK government over the implementation of the three-language policy has sparked a fresh controversy. Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan criticized the DMK’s stance, questioning why Tamil films are dubbed in Hindi while opposing the language’s imposition in the South.
Reacting to Pawan Kalyan’s remarks, DMK spokesperson Dr. Syed Hafizullah refuted the criticism, stating that the Jana Sena chief misunderstood Tamil Nadu’s language policy.
“We have never opposed individuals learning Hindi or other languages. In fact, we conduct Hindi promotion programs for those interested. However, we strongly resist the Central Government’s attempt to forcibly impose Hindi through initiatives like the NEP and PM Shri Schools,” Hafizullah clarified.
Senior DMK leader TKS Elangovan also hit back, stating, “We have been opposing the forced imposition of Hindi since 1938. The Tamil Nadu Assembly has passed a bill supporting the two-language policy based on expert recommendations. We are not obliged to align with the opinions of film stars or political leaders. When this bill was passed in 1968, Pawan Kalyan was not even born. He lacks an understanding of Tamil Nadu politics.”
Meanwhile, BJP leaders have backed Pawan Kalyan’s statements.
Addressing the 12th anniversary celebrations of the Jana Sena Party in Pithapuram, Pawan Kalyan said, “If you oppose the imposition of Hindi in the South, why are Tamil films being dubbed into Hindi? You want money from states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar but reject Hindi. Is this fair? Also, instead of debating the reduction of Lok Sabha seats in the South due to delimitation, why are you demanding to change the rupee symbol to Tamil? Shouldn’t there be logical reasoning?”