Khanapur: The Maharashtra Ekikaran Samiti (MES), Khanapur, has strongly objected to the introduction of Kannada classes in Marathi-medium schools while Marathi textbooks remain unavailable to students. A delegation of the committee met the Block Education Officer and sought an explanation on the issue.
Committee members questioned why textbooks in Kannada, English, and Urdu are available on time, while the printing and distribution of Marathi textbooks continue to be delayed. They also asked why Marathi, despite being the mother tongue and first language of thousands of students in the border region, is being subjected to discrimination.
The committee alleged that the continued neglect of Marathi education and culture is part of a deliberate attempt by the Karnataka administration to weaken the language’s presence in the region. It also expressed strong opposition to conducting Kannada classes in Marathi-medium schools.
Committee leaders further questioned why Marathi schools in Marathi-majority areas face difficulties in obtaining recognition, while Kannada schools receive approvals without hurdles. They argued that such policies are adversely affecting the educational rights of Marathi-speaking students.
The Samiti demanded the immediate availability of Marathi textbooks and urged the education department to withdraw any move to impose Kannada classes in Marathi-medium schools. It called for equal treatment of Marathi students and institutions in the region.
Warning of intensified agitation, the committee stated that if the authorities fail to take prompt corrective action, it will launch a strong protest movement in defense of Marathi language, education, and cultural rights.
