Maharashtra Minister warns action against schools not teaching Marathi; recognition may be revoked

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Maharashtra School Education Minister Dada Bhuse on Friday warned that strict action will be taken against schools that fail to teach Marathi as mandated under state law, including the possibility of cancelling their recognition, reported news agency PTI.

Speaking during the Question Hour in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, Bhuse said the government will conduct inspections and take action against institutions that do not comply with the legislation making Marathi compulsory for students from Classes 1 to 10.

Marathi mandatory across all school boards

The minister reiterated that Marathi has been made compulsory for students studying in Classes 1 to 10 in all schools across Maharashtra, including institutions affiliated with national and international boards, reported PTI.

Bhuse said the state government had already enacted the relevant legislation and issued a notification on March 9, 2020, mandating the teaching of Marathi in all schools operating in the state.

While schools following international curricula may offer Marathi as a second or third language, teaching the language itself remains mandatory, he clarified.

Government to conduct inspections based on complaints

The minister's statement came in response to concerns raised by several legislators who alleged that some prominent international schools were not offering Marathi as part of their curriculum, reported PTI.

Bhuse said the government will initiate inspections based on complaints received regarding such violations.

"If the inquiry finds that Marathi is not being taught, such institutions will first be asked to comply with the rules and will be given an opportunity to rectify the situation," he told the House, reported PTI.

Recognition of schools may be cancelled

The minister warned that if schools continue to violate the mandatory provision even after being given time to comply, the government could initiate strict action.

This could include revoking the recognition of the institution, he said.

Bhuse emphasised that the government expects all schools operating in the state to follow the law regarding the teaching of Marathi.

Legislators asked to report violations

He also urged members of the Assembly to inform the government if they come across any schools that are not implementing the rule, reported PTI.

According to the minister, such information would help the authorities conduct prompt inquiries and ensure that the law is implemented effectively.

Bhuse reiterated that the state government remains committed to enforcing the legislation requiring Marathi to be taught in all schools across Maharashtra.

(With inputs from PTI)