Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s recent remarks on the English language have intensified the ongoing debate over language, national identity, and federalism in India. At a book launch, Shah stated that English speakers in India would soon "feel ashamed", arguing that the use of native Indian languages should take precedence as they are central to the country’s culture, identity, and pride.
He emphasized that foreign languages—particularly English—represent a "symbol of colonial slavery", and predicted a societal shift where English would be frowned upon globally. He argued that no foreign language could ever truly help Indians understand their culture, religion, and history, and insisted that reclaiming Indian languages was key to reviving national self-respect and asserting leadership on the world stage.
Shah’s rhetoric was strong:
"In this country, those who speak English will soon feel ashamed... Without our languages, we cease to be truly Indian."
He added that while the battle to revive Indian languages was difficult, he was confident that the country would eventually embrace a future led by vernacular languages.
Background: The Language Row
Shah’s comments come amid a simmering language controversy, especially concerning the three-language formula promoted under the National Education Policy (NEP). Critics, especially from southern and non-BJP-ruled states like Tamil Nadu and West Bengal, have accused the Centre of trying to impose Hindi, thereby marginalizing regional languages and cultures.
Tamil Nadu has particularly opposed what it calls "Hindi imposition," reiterating its commitment to a two-language policy (Tamil and English). The state views the NEP’s language provisions as a covert strategy to push Hindi across India, especially in non-Hindi speaking states.
Centre's Counterpoint
Earlier this year, Amit Shah stated that the Home Ministry would begin communicating with states in their respective native languages from December, presenting this as an effort to promote inclusivity and reduce language-based alienation.
Despite this, his latest comments are likely to further polarize opinion:
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Supporters argue that he is right to call for cultural decolonization and linguistic pride.
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Critics warn that his framing could alienate English speakers, and spark fears of Hindi dominance rather than true multilingual empowerment.
Key Takeaway
Amit Shah’s remarks are not just about English vs. Indian languages—they tap into larger concerns around national identity, regional autonomy, colonial legacy, and educational access. While the push to elevate Indian languages may resonate with nationalist sentiment, the tone and timing of such declarations, amid existing fears of linguistic centralization, could deepen divisions unless backed by a genuinely inclusive and multilingual policy framework.
