Two-language policy 'rigid', charges TN guv

Tamil Nadu governor RN Ravi on Friday waded into a raging controversy over language as he criticised the state's two-language policy and alleged that it deprived young people in the southern districts of jobs and opportunities, triggering a sharp response from the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam.

- KA Shaji

CHENNAI:

At a second event, the governor, who has been locked in an escalating conflict with the elected government since he was appointed on September 9, 2021, said he was concerned about "internal and external forces" that he believed are attempting to "divide and destroy" the country through "lies and hatred in the name of language.

The governor, currently touring the districts of Thoothukudi and Tirunelveli, referred to the southern region of Tamil Nadu as rich in human and natural resources, but said they were now treated like neglected backyards.

"Despite the significant potential for industrialisation, people in this region feel neglected and deprived of opportunities. There is a strong demand for the implementation of NEP 2020. The young people here feel increasingly disadvantaged compared to those from neighbouring states due to the rigid two-language policy of the state government," he said on X.

"They believe that, contrary to Hindi, they are not allowed to study any other South Indian languages, which they find unfair. Our youth must have a choice to study language," he added.

State law minister S Regupathy hit back, asking Ravi not to impart lessons to Tamils about their affinity for their language.

He accused the governor of "repeatedly spewing hatred against Tamil, Tamil Nadu, and Tamil Thaai Vazhthu" (the state anthem), referencing past controversies.