'I know 7-8 languages': Sudha Murthy endorses 3-language policy
What's the story
Rajya Sabha MP Sudha Murthy has come out in support of the three-language formula under the National Education Policy (NEP), which encourages students to learn multiple languages. Murthy quoted her own experience in learning languages, saying, "I have always believed that one can learn multiple languages and I myself know 7-8 languages. So I enjoy learning and children can learn a lot."
Dissent
Opposition voices concerns over 3-language policy
The three-language policy has been criticized by several opposition leaders. Congress MP Karti Chidambaram said he strongly disagreed with making a third language compulsory; Tamil Nadu is well served by its current two-language system of English and Tamil, he said. He added the culture and identity of the state should be preserved through language choices.
Sensitivity
Congress MP highlights sensitivity of language issues
Congress MP Jebi Mather also slammed the BJP on the three-language policy. She brought out how emotional people were about language matters: "BJP should realize that the language issue is a sensitive emotional matter... Anything that hurts people's sentiments should not be promoted." Mather said Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan was needlessly dividing society with the policy.
Defense
Education Minister defends 3-language policy amid opposition
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan defended the three-language policy amid claims that it is being used to divide society. He asserted that PM Narendra Modi's central government would never indulge in such a practice, terming it a "sin." Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman also criticized Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) for opposing the policy, accusing them of creating a "political mess" in Tamil Nadu.
Controversy
Three-language policy sparks debate in Parliament
The debate on the three-language formula in the National Education Policy (NEP) has rocked Parliament. The controversy was ignited when Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan made comments against Tamil Nadu's government and its people. This sparked protests by Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) MPs, with Pradhan's comments later expunged by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla.