AAMIR HUSSAIN
Mr. Aamir Hussain is a visiting lecturer at the Karakoram International University and a permanent faculty member at the Gilgit College of Commerce and Economics.
DOI: http://DOI Number
Keywords: language-centric politics, north-south division, Hindi language, marginalisation.
Abstract
India is a multilingual country, with 22 national languages and thousands of regional languages. It has also been a source of contention, estrangement, prejudice, and dominance for a variety of political actors and agendas. Indian states, parties, laws, policies, educational systems, media outlets, and social movements are highly influenced and shaped by the local languages. This paper highlights the north-south divide in India especially in connection with language politics. In doing so, the paper examines how Hindi as a national language affects north-south relations, and how it sparks resistance and fuels the emergence of anti-BJP parties in the southern states of India. By tracing the historical and contemporary politics of southern India, the paper reflects how opposition to Hindi imposition has been a key factor in the rise of anti-BJP parties in the region. These parties have used language politics as a strategy to mobilise their voters and gain influence in the region. In conclusion, the paper brings forth the complex interplay between language, identity, and political power in contemporary India.
First Published
June 25, 2023
How to Cite
Amir Hussain, “Marginalising Regional Languages: The Hindi Dominance in India”, Regional Studies 41, no. 1 (Summer 2023): 63-79 https://regionalstudies.com.pk/wp/article/marginalising-regional-languagesthe-hindi-dominance-in-india/(opens in a new tab)
Issue
Volume 41, Issue 1