Karnataka's growing demand: Scrap Hindi, implement Two-Language policy in schools

A new wave of linguistic activism is sweeping Karnataka as thousands of people, including educators, cultural figures, and concerned citizens, have rallied to demand the removal of Hindi as a compulsory subject in schools. A strong online campaign, backed by over 15,000 signatures, is pressing the government to abandon Hindi instruction and replace it with a two-language policy promoting Kannada and English.

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Prominent voices like lyricists Kaviraj and V. Nagendra Prasad, along with veteran director T.S. Nagabharana, have thrown their support behind the campaign, emphasizing that language policies should prioritize local needs. The slogan”Namma Naadu, Namma Alvike” (Our land, our language, our governance) resonates strongly, reflecting a broader push for Kannada to remain central in Karnataka’s educational system.

One major driver behind this demand is student performance. In 2024, over 90,000 SSLC students failed the Hindi language exam, contributing to higher dropout rates, particularly in rural areas. Activists argue that forcing a third language, especially Hindi, increases academic pressure and hampers effective learning. Dropping the third language would allow students to focus more on essential subjects and improve overall outcomes.

Campaigners point to examples from other states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Tamil Nadu, where bilingual education (primarily the local language and English) has proven successful. They argue that focusing resources on Kannada and English can improve educational quality while reducing stress for students. They call for equitable and quality education, urging the government to implement a uniform bilingual policy in both government and private schools and to provide better support for Kannada-medium institutions.

The key demands include:

1. Immediate scrapping of the three-language policy
2. Adoption of a Kannada-English bilingual policy
3. More support for Kannada-medium schools
4. Equitable education resources