Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, October 19, 2024, Chennai — The ongoing debate over the promotion of the Hindi language has resurfaced in Tamil Nadu, as Chief Minister MK Stalin vehemently criticized the celebration of Hindi Month by Chennai Doordarshan. This renewed conflict highlights the tensions surrounding linguistic diversity in India, particularly in non-Hindi-speaking states.
Stalin articulated his concerns during a press conference, asserting that the observance of Hindi Month in Tamil Nadu is an affront to the rich tapestry of languages that constitute the country. He stated, “India is a country of many languages. The forced celebration of Hindi Month in non-Hindi-speaking states is actually belittling other languages.” His comments reflect a broader sentiment in the southern states, where there is increasing pushback against perceived impositions of Hindi.
The controversy intensified when the state anthem, “Tamil Thai Vazhthu,” was performed without the word “Dravidian,” sparking allegations of insensitivity towards Tamil identity. Stalin took aim at Governor R.N. Ravi, claiming that he suffers from a “Dravidian allergy.” “Singing the Tamil Nadu state anthem without the word ‘Dravidian’ is against Tamil Nadu law,” Stalin emphasized. He accused the Governor of disrespecting the unity of the country and the sentiments of the Tamil community, insisting that the central government should intervene to remove a Governor who “deliberately hurt the sentiments of Tamil Nadu and its people.”
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Stalin stated, “I strongly condemn the celebration of Hindi Month on Doordarshan. The Prime Minister’s Office has not given the status of a constitutional language to Hindi. My suggestion is to cease the forced promotion of Hindi in non-Hindi states. Events should be organized in the respective languages, respecting the linguistic diversity of each state.”
In response, the Governor’s office dismissed Stalin’s allegations, clarifying that the Governor was merely a guest at the event and had not issued any directives regarding the anthem. They contended that the omission of the word “Dravidian” was unintentional and the result of oversight by those performing the song.
Stalin, however, rejected this explanation, noting that similar incidents have occurred in the past and asserting that the issue at hand is not one of carelessness but a deeper disregard for Tamil identity. The Governor, for his part, retorted that Tamil Nadu uniquely opposes all languages except its own within the framework of the trilingual formula, while other states have embraced this principle.
As tensions escalate, the debate over language rights and cultural identity in Tamil Nadu continues to provoke strong reactions from both political leaders and the public. Further developments are expected as stakeholders navigate this complex issue.