Row over language turns violent in India's richest state

The Maharashtra government's decision to make Hindi mandatory in schools has sparked a heated controversy in India's wealthiest state. The move faced strong opposition from various political parties and civil society groups, who argued that it undermined the state's linguistic diversity and autonomy. In response to the backlash, the government has now backtracked on the decision, but tensions continue to simmer. Protests and demonstrations have erupted, with some turning violent, as people express their concerns over the perceived imposition of Hindi. The dispute highlights the sensitive nature of language policies in India, where different states have their own official languages and cultural identities. The Maharashtra incident underscores the need for inclusive and sensitive policymaking that respects the linguistic rights of all citizens, while also promoting national unity and integration. As the situation continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how the government will navigate these complex issues and find a balanced solution that addresses the concerns of all stakeholders.