'Matri Bhasha, Career Language, and....': RSS Proposes Its Three-Language Formula

New Delhi: As the BJP -led central government and Tamil Nadu continue to clash over the three-language formula, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) proposed its own approach, advocating a multilingual system that balances mother tongue, regional language, and a career-oriented language.

During the three-day Akhil Bhartiya Pratinidhi Sabha (ABPS) meeting, RSS joint general secretary Mukunda CR clarified the Sangh’s stance on language policy, stating that the RSS was not responsible for the three-language formula but has always supported multilingual education with a strong emphasis on one’s mother tongue.

RSS’s Three-Language Approach

The RSS has consistently advocated for the use of one's mother tongue in daily life and has passed resolutions reinforcing this stance. It promotes a trilingual approach, encouraging individuals to learn three languages: their mother tongue (Matri Bhasha), a regional or local language, and a career-oriented language, which may include English. However, it maintains that the choice of a career language should be left to personal preference.

"Mother tongue or Matri Bhasha should be the primary medium of a child's education, as it is deeply connected to home, culture, and identity. It shapes thought processes, values, and character, forming the foundation of understanding," Mukunda CR told CNN-News18.

Further elaborating, he said, "The language of the local community and marketplace also needs to be taught. It allows individuals to engage with society around them, communicate effectively in their region, and participate fully in public life. A child needs to learn a career language, which can include English too. This is essential for professional growth, access to international platforms, and competitiveness in the modern world."

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RSS Distances Itself from Political Debate Over Delimitation

During the meeting, Mukunda CR also addressed the delimitation debate, calling it "politically motivated." He asserted that the RSS has no role in deciding the number of parliamentary seats and that the matter falls under Parliament’s jurisdiction.

"Delimitation is a matter for Parliament. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has already stated that it will be carried out in a proportional ratio manner," he said.

Language Policy Sparks Political Clash

The Union government has remained firm on implementing a three-language formula, ensuring that it does not impose Hindi on non-Hindi-speaking states. However, the DMK government in Tamil Nadu has opposed the move, favoring a two-language system and accusing the Centre of attempting to impose Hindi.

Rejecting the North-South language divide, Mukunda CR stated, "RSS believes that the North-South divide is politically motivated. We emphasize that such issues should be addressed by social leaders, as conflicts over linguistic differences are detrimental to national unity."

The RSS’s balanced approach to language policy comes at a time when debates over linguistic identity and education policies have intensified across Tamil Nadu.