June 2, 2019
Press Statement
The Polit Bureau of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) has issued the following statement:
The Polit Bureau of the CPI(M) is unequivocally opposed to the imposition of the three-language formula from primary level of school education as proposed in the Draft National Education Policy released by the HRD ministry. The CPI(M) is of the firm opinion that the opposition is not to any particular language but for ensuring the opportunity for all Indian languages to develop and thrive.
In response to this insensitive idea contained in the draft, there has been widespread reaction particularly from the southern states. The CPI(M) strongly feels that such forcible imposition will only lead to feelings of linguistic chauvinism detrimental for the unity of our people and the country.
Stung by the strong criticism, the government has issued a clarification to the effect that the document is only a draft. Given the extremely sensitive nature of the issue, the government must withdraw the current draft and come out with a fresh one setting the controversy to rest.
The Polit Bureau appeals to all democratic and right-thinking citizens, organisations, groups and individuals in the education and cultural sphere to raise their voice to force the government to roll back this disturbing initiative.