New Delhi: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Saturday criticised Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin over his remarks on the three-language formula. He called the claim of “imposition” a “tired attempt” to cover up political shortcomings.
According to Pradhan, describing the policy as “linguistic imposition” misrepresents a progressive reform and creates unnecessary fear among people.
Stalin flags Hindi push concern
Earlier, Stalin said the three-language formula is a “covert” way to promote Hindi in non-Hindi-speaking states. He also criticised the CBSE curriculum framework linked to the National Education Policy 2020.
Hon’ble Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Thiru @mkstalin ji, your narrative of “imposition” is a tired attempt to mask political failures. The National Education Policy 2020 is, in fact, a manifesto for linguistic liberation. It prioritises the mother tongue so every Tamil child can… https://t.co/DhDP5ECM4e
— Dharmendra Pradhan (@dpradhanbjp) April 4, 2026
Stalin described the framework as a “calculated” and “deeply concerning” move toward linguistic imposition.
NEP promotes mother tongue
In response, Pradhan said the National Education Policy 2020 focuses on “linguistic liberation.” He said the policy supports education in the mother tongue so that every child can learn better.
He added that portraying the policy as compulsory Hindi reduces opportunities for students to become multilingual and globally competitive. He said multilingualism would strengthen Tamil rather than weaken it.
Push for multilingual education
Pradhan said the policy promotes all languages equally and aligns with constitutional values. He said it aims to improve the existing two-language system.
He also referred to implementation through schemes like Samagra Shiksha, along with teacher training and institutional strengthening.
PM-SHRI schools delay raised
Pradhan alleged that the Tamil Nadu government has delayed the rollout of PM-SHRI Schools. He said the state has not signed the required Memorandum of Understanding despite earlier commitments.
According to him, this has denied underprivileged students access to better infrastructure and quality education.
Political motive alleged
Calling the resistance “deliberate,” Pradhan accused the state government of putting politics ahead of student welfare. He urged Stalin to stop framing the issue as Hindi imposition and support efforts to promote linguistic diversity across the country.