Despite the fervent rhetoric against English, most political leaders – including those advocating for its removal – choose English-medium education for their own children. This contradiction reflects the undeniable truth: in globalised India, English is the passport to higher education, job opportunities, international diplomacy and technological innovation. https://thewire.in/politics/amit-shahs-jibe-at-english-speakers-revives-old-fault-lines-of-linguistic-politics-in-india
Statistical trends show English leading in sectors like education, industry and administration – even in the Hindi heartland. It is the language of science, law and governance. India’s tech boom, international trade relations and higher education landscape are all heavily reliant on English proficiency.
Ironically, while vilifying English for political mileage, many of its opponents privately benefit from its advantages. This duplicity not only weakens the credibility of their arguments but also threatens national cohesion by reanimating dormant linguistic fault lines.
by Hasnain Naqvi
26/06/2025