Is It Right for Amit Shah to Propose Making Hindi the National Language?

The recent debate surrounding the proposal to make Hindi the national language of India is charged with a mix of national pride and communal divisions. Politicians like Amit Shah assert that Hindi can unify the country, but critics argue that such a move could result in the marginalization of non-Hindi speaking regions and communities, potentially undermining India's Unity in Diversity.

Historical Context and Controversy

Since time immemorial, the promotion of Hindi as the sole unifying language has often been seen as an inappropriate imposition. Figures like Purushottam Das Tandon and Raghuram Vinayak Dhulekar have historically championed the cause of Hindi at the expense of other regional languages, contributing to a language-based bigotry that has long been a contentious point in the Indian political landscape.

Effects of Linguistic Unity and Diversity

Contrary to the claims of Hindi nationalism, it is often the polar opposite that poses a risk to India's unity. Historically, attempts to impose a single language have led to fragmentation and divisiveness. As R.Ponnambalam astutely noted, making Hindi the sole national language disregards the complex linguistic and cultural diversity of India. For instance, the identification of Hindi and Urdu as separate languages by users and speakers from different religious and cultural backgrounds highlights the dangers of such a unifying strategy.

Furthermore, the forced merger of Hindi and Urdu, as suggested by some politicians, represents an erasure of identity and heritage. By dropping the HinduSTAN tag, one ignores the rich history and cultural contributions of both Hindu and Muslim communities in areas like Mughal ruled states.

Alternatives to a National Language

Instead of promoting a single national language, the focus should be on education, economic development, and social welfare. As the article by an anonymous author suggests, what India needs are leaders with a broad vision capable of addressing the pressing needs of the masses and creating a more inclusive society. This involves ensuring that all citizens have access to quality education and healthcare, and reducing poverty and corruption.

Respecting Linguistic Diversity

Another theoretical proposal by Amit Shah to make Sanskrit the national language, an ancient language of immense cultural and historical significance, highlights a more academic rather than practical approach. While learning Sanskrit is a commendable initiative, it is inconsistent with the practical needs of a diverse society. It is crucial to recognize that not everyone is capable of learning multiple languages, and imposing such a burden can create significant barriers.

Moreover, the author emphasizes the importance of respecting all languages, recognizing them as integral parts of Indian identity. The idea that Hindi is more Indian than other languages is a misunderstanding that overlooks the deep cultural and linguistic heritage inherent in all 22 officially recognized languages of India.

Conclusion: A Call for Unity Through Inclusivity

For India to truly unite, it must embrace and celebrate its diversity. By promoting linguistic and cultural inclusion, India can build a more cohesive and resilient society. While Nationalism is important, it should not come at the expense of individual identities and differences. The goal should be to foster a sense of Indian identity based on shared values and a commitment to progress and development for all Indians.