DMK MP Kanimozhi Defends Tamil Nadu’s Exemption from Three-Language Policy

In a recent statement to PTI, DMK MP Kanimozhi emphasized Tamil Nadu’s exemption from the three-language policy, highlighting the state’s long-standing opposition to the imposition of Hindi.

Her remarks come amidst ongoing debates over the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and its implications for the state’s education system.

Tamil Nadu’s Exemption from Three-Language Policy

Kanimozhi reiterated that when the resolution was passed in Parliament, it was explicitly stated that the three-language system could be adopted, but an exemption was granted to Tamil Nadu.

She asserted, “When the resolution was passed in the Parliament, it was clearly said that three language system can be adopted but the exemption is clearly given to state of Tamil Nadu. So, once that is agreed upon, going back on it is unnecessary and creates issues.”

VIDEO | Chennai: DMK MP Kanimozhi says, “When the resolution was passed in the Parliament, it was clearly said that three language system can be adopted but the exemption is clearly given to state of Tamil Nadu. So, once that is agreed upon, going back on it is unnecessary and… pic.twitter.com/Lub76vfzdJ

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 25, 2025

Opposition to Hindi Imposition

The DMK has consistently opposed the imposition of Hindi, viewing it as a threat to Tamil Nadu’s linguistic and cultural identity.

Kanimozhi‘s statement aligns with the party’s stance, which has been vocal about protecting the Tamil language and resisting any efforts to make Hindi more dominant. The party argues that the three-language policy undermines the state’s two-language system, which includes Tamil and English.

Recent Developments and Reactions

The controversy over the three-language policy has intensified with the Union Government withholding funds under the Samagra Shiksha scheme, demanding that Tamil Nadu implement the NEP 2020.

In response, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has firmly rejected the policy, stating, “If we introduce NEP, we will end up taking the State backwards by over 2,000 years. Even if we are offered Rs.10,000 crore, the government will not introduce NEP as long as I am the Chief Minister.”

Political Implications

The ongoing debate has significant political implications, with the DMK and its allies framing the issue as a matter of state rights and autonomy.

The party has organized protests and raised awareness among the public about their opposition to the three-language policy. Kanimozhi‘s recent statement further reinforces the party’s commitment to preserving Tamil Nadu’s linguistic heritage.