CM Fadnavis Clarifies: Only Marathi Will Be Mandatory, No Plan to Impose Hindi
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has clarified that the state government has no intention of making Hindi mandatory in official communications. He emphasized that only Marathi will be compulsory in government offices, and there are no plans to impose Hindi.
In February 2025, the Maharashtra government issued a directive requiring all government and semi-government offices to use Marathi for all official communication, signage, and documentation. The directive mandates that employees communicate in Marathi with visitors, except for those from non-Marathi-speaking states or foreign countries. Failure to comply with this directive will result in disciplinary action.
The decision aims to promote the Marathi language, preserve its heritage, and foster a sense of cultural pride among the people of Maharashtra. It is part of the government’s broader efforts to strengthen the state’s linguistic identity and ensure that Marathi remains the primary language of communication in public affairs.
Chief Minister Fadnavis has also emphasized the importance of learning and respecting the Marathi language. He stated that while the government respects all languages, it is essential for everyone in the state to learn and speak Marathi to maintain the cultural fabric of Maharashtra.
In response to concerns about the implementation of the Marathi language policy, the Chief Minister assured that the government is committed to supporting individuals who may face challenges in adapting to the new requirements. He encouraged citizens to embrace the policy as a step toward preserving and promoting the Marathi language for future generations.
In conclusion, the Maharashtra government’s decision to make Marathi mandatory in official communications reflects its commitment to preserving the state’s linguistic heritage. While the policy does not mandate the use of Hindi, it underscores the importance of promoting and respecting the Marathi language in all aspects of public life.