RSS suggests its own ‘three-language formula’ amid NEP row: ‘Matri bhasha, career language and…’

Mukunda CR, joint general secretary of the RSS

As the BJP-led Centre and Tamil Nadu clash over the three-language formula, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has adopted a balanced approach -- encouraging the use of a person’s mother tongue, the regional or local language where a person resides, and a career language like English or another option aimed at boosting their professional growth trajectory.

Addressing the media during the RSS’s three-day Akhil Bhartiya Pratinidhi Sabha (ABPS) meet, Mukunda CR, joint general secretary, said the Sangh was not responsible for the three-language policy but has always advocated a multilingual system with the mother tongue at its core.

Explaining the multilingual approach suggested by RSS

RSS emphasised the importance of using the mother tongue in everyday life and has passed resolutions supporting this view. It encourages individuals to learn three languages: their mother tongue or matri bhasha, a regional/local language, and a career-oriented language which can include English too. It maintained that the choice of a career language should be left to the individual.

“Mother tongue or Matri Bhasha needs to be the primary language for a child’s education. This is the language of one’s home and culture. It shapes thought, values, and identity. It is the foundation on which character and understanding are built,” Mukunda CR was quoted as saying by CNN-News18.

“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,” he added.

On the delimitation debate, he said it was "politically motivated", and the RSS has no say on the number of seats. He emphasised that delimitation is a matter for Parliament, adding that Union Home Minister Amit Shah has stated it will be carried out in a proportional ratio manner.

The Union government remains firm on implementing a three-language formula without focusing on Hindi, while the DMK opposes it, favouring a two-language system and alleging that the policy seeks to impose Hindi.

“RSS believes that the North-South divide is politically motivated. We emphasise that such issues should be addressed by social leaders, as conflicts over linguistic differences are detrimental to national unity,” he said, according to RSS-linked magazine Organiser.