Linguistic equality is not chauvinism: TN CM Stalin hits out at Language Policy

Chennai: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin on Thursday, has invoked the spirit of the 1967 Anti-Hindi movement, urging the people of the state to rise against what he described as the imposition of Hindi. Taking to social media platform X, Stalin drew parallels between past struggles and current challenges while reiterating his strong opposition to linguistic imposition.

Evoking the 1967 protests

Sharing a photograph of former Chief Minister C.N. Annadurai, Stalin reminded the people of the 1967 language protests.

"1967: Anna sat down; Tamil Nadu rose! If any harm comes to the proud Tamil Nadu, let us roar like wildfire! Let us celebrate the victory!" he posted on X, calling for collective resistance.

Opposition to Hindi imposition

In another post, Stalin reinforced his stand against the dominance of Hindi and defended Tamil’s rightful place. Citing a well-known quote, he stated, "When you are accustomed to privilege, equality feels like oppression."

He also addressed accusations levelled against the DMK by its critics.

"Some entitled bigots brand us chauvinists and anti-nationals for the 'crime' of demanding Tamil's rightful place in Tamil Nadu," Stalin said.

The Chief Minister took aim at those who he claimed uphold Nathuram Godse’s ideology.

"The very people who glorify Godse's ideology have the audacity to question the patriotism of DMK and its government," he remarked. Stalin highlighted Tamil Nadu’s contributions to national efforts, referencing the Chinese Aggression, the Bangladesh Liberation War, and the Kargil War. He also reminded critics that "their ideological forefather assassinated Mahatma Gandhi."

Demand for linguistic equality

Stalin asserted that demanding linguistic equality is not an act of chauvinism but a fundamental right.

"Chauvinism is naming the three criminal laws that govern 140 crore citizens in a language that Tamils cannot even pronounce or comprehend by reading," he stated, criticising the naming conventions of new legal reforms.

Allegations of discrimination against Tamil Nadu

The Tamil Nadu CM further argued that the state has been treated unfairly despite being one of the largest contributors to the nation’s economy.

"Chauvinism is treating the state that contributes the most to the nation as second-class citizens and denying its fair share for refusing to swallow the poison called NEP," he posted.

He warned that the imposition of any language breeds division and threatens national unity.

"The true chauvinists and anti-nationals are the Hindi zealots who believe their entitlement is natural but our resistance is treason," Stalin asserted.

Stalin has been vocal in his criticism of the Centre, particularly regarding the three-language policy and the upcoming constituency delimitation exercise.