The Shiv Sena (UBT) on Thursday criticised the government’s decision to grant `Classical Language` (Abhijat) status to Marathi, calling it a “hollow political exercise” with little visible impact on the ground, reported news agency IANS.
In an editorial published in its mouthpiece Saamana, the party said that even as Maharashtra prepares to celebrate Marathi Language Day, the reality of the language’s educational and cultural ecosystem remains deeply concerning.
The editorial argued that despite the recognition, there has been no significant progress in strengthening Marathi language infrastructure or promoting its wider use, reported IANS.
Closure of Marathi Schools Raises Alarm
Citing a recent statement by Education Minister Dada Bhuse in the state Assembly, the editorial highlighted that as many as 255 Marathi-medium schools have shut down across Maharashtra, reported IANS.
It further noted that nearly 2,000 additional schools are currently facing severe challenges, raising fears of further closures. The situation could also impact employment, with an estimated 25,000 teachers likely to become surplus due to declining enrolment.
While the government has attributed the trend to parents increasingly opting for English-medium institutions, the Shiv Sena (UBT) alleged that the root cause lies in a lack of commitment from the administration.
Concerns Over Cultural and Economic Marginalisation
The editorial also pointed to broader concerns about the diminishing presence of Marathi culture, particularly in Mumbai. It claimed that traditional Marathi institutions such as libraries, gymkhanas, and cultural spaces are facing encroachment amid redevelopment projects, reported IANS.
It further alleged that Marathi-speaking communities are experiencing economic marginalisation, with major state contracts often going to out-of-state entities. The editorial argued that Marathi is not being treated as a “language of industry,” linking its decline to employment and economic opportunities, reported IANS.
The party also raised concerns about changing demographics in traditional Marathi strongholds like Girgaon, suggesting that redevelopment is altering the city’s cultural landscape.
Call to Strengthen Marathi Education at Grassroots
While Minister for Marathi Language Conservation Uday Samant has proposed setting up “Centers of Excellence” for Marathi in India and abroad, the Shiv Sena (UBT) maintained that priority should be given to strengthening the language within the state, reported IANS.
The editorial emphasised that Marathi can only thrive if its schools are preserved and primary education in the mother tongue is made compulsory.
Concluding its critique, the party said that unless Marathi becomes closely linked with economic opportunities and everyday life, the ‘classical language’ status will remain symbolic, offering little relief to those who feel culturally and economically sidelined in their own state.
(With inputs from IANS)
