BackPOLITICS
Century-old Hindi-imposition debate resurfaces before Tamil Nadu assembly elections
The Tamil Nadu Hindi-imposition debate, dating back to the British era, is highlighted as the DMK rejects a three-language policy while the Centre defends NEP 2020. The article recalls 1937 events in the Madras Presidency that sparked protests led by Periyar and others, framing the current Centre-State clash ahead of the Tamil Nadu assembly elections.
Why It Matters
The piece shows how historical language policy battles continue to influence contemporary politics in Tamil Nadu and reflect Centre-State tensions over education policy.
Timeline
7 Events
Tamil Nadu assembly elections scheduled for April 23, 2026
April 19, 2026
The article notes that the Tamil Nadu assembly elections are set for April 23, 2026.
Centre defends NEP 2020, says no Hindi-imposition on states
April 19, 2026
The Centre defends the National Education Policy (NEP 2020), stating that it does not intend to impose Hindi on any state.
DMK government opposes three-language policy in Tamil Nadu
April 19, 2026
The DMK government in Tamil Nadu has stated it will never accept the three-language policy.
Rajaji issues government order making Hindi compulsory in Madras Presidency secondary schools
1937
Despite the agitation, Rajaji issued a government order making Hindi compulsory in the secondary schools in the Madras Presidency.
Rajaji announces plans to introduce Hindi as language of instruction in secondary schools
1937
Within a month of coming to power, Rajaji announced plans to introduce Hindi as the language of instruction in secondary schools, followed by a policy statement.
Rajagopalachari becomes Premier of the Madras Presidency
1937
In 1937, following the Indian National Congress victory, C Rajagopalachari ('Rajaji') became the Premier of the Madras Presidency.
Anti-Hindi agitations begin prominently in 1937 (Madras Presidency)
1937
The anti-Hindi agitations began prominently in 1937 in the Madras Presidency of the British Raj, marking the early phase of the century-long debate over language policy.