Rahul Gandhi Responds to Amit Shah's Remarks on English
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has bly reacted to Union Home Minister Amit Shah's recent statement on the English language. Shah had suggested that English speakers would feel ashamed in the future, a sentiment Gandhi countered by highlighting English as a tool for empowerment and opportunity for the underprivileged. These contrasting statements have intensified the ongoing political debate surrounding language and education in India.
Amit Shah's Statement
During the launch of former IAS officer Ashutosh Agnihotri's book, Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated that a time will come in the near future when speaking English in India will be a matter of shame. He argued that understanding one's culture, religion, and history is impossible through foreign languages. He emphasized that Indian languages are the true identity of the nation and will play a crucial role in making India a global superpower by 2047.
Rahul Gandhi's Counter
Congress MP Rahul Gandhi responded sharply to Shah's statement. On the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), he posted that English is not a wall but a bridge; a source of empowerment, not shame; and a tool for breaking, not creating, chains.
Rahul Gandhi accused the BJP and RSS of preventing poor children from learning English, alleging that these organizations fear that if poor children learn English, they will question, progress, and demand equality.
Rahul Gandhi's Perspective on English
Rahul Gandhi asserted that in today's world, English is as important as one's mother tongue. He highlighted its role in securing employment, boosting confidence, and enabling competition on global platforms. While emphasizing the importance of preserving the knowledge, culture, and soul embedded in every Indian language, he stressed the necessity of teaching English to every child. He presented this as the pathway to a competitive India that offers equal opportunities to all.
Rahul Gandhi's Shared Video
Along with his post, Rahul Gandhi shared a video elaborating on how English opens doors to opportunities. He argued that knowing English allows individuals to work in countries like the United States or Japan. He accused those opposed to English of hindering the poor from accessing better jobs, keeping opportunities out of their reach.
The Politics of Language
In a multilingual nation like India, language has always been a sensitive and politically charged issue. While English is viewed as a gateway to global opportunities, it is also seen as a legacy of colonialism.
The BJP and RSS have long advocated for the promotion of Indian languages, believing that local languages should be prioritized in education and administration. Conversely, parties like the Congress believe that neglecting English in the modern era would limit opportunities for the poor and rural populations.
