Kamal Haasan News: Actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan emphasized the importance of language among Tamils on Friday, February 20, and warned against taking such matters lightly. The South superstar’s remarks came amid the ongoing language dispute between the central government and MK Stalin’s DMK government in the southern state.
A sharp political tussle is underway between the BJP and DMK over the New Education Policy (NEP) in Tamil Nadu.

Speaking at the 8th foundation day event of his party Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM), Kamal Haasan said, «Tamils have sacrificed their lives for a language. Do not play with such things. Tamil people, even children, know which language they need. They are aware of what language they require.»

kamal-haasan

Haasan made these remarks while addressing his party workers. Notably, the South superstar’s party MNM had supported the DMK and India bloc during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections in Tamil Nadu.

Why the Controversy Resurfaced

The debate over Hindi versus southern languages has persisted for years in southern states, reigniting recently when the New Education Policy (NEP) was proposed for implementation in Tamil Nadu. Thousands of students protested against the policy, taking to the streets. Meanwhile, CM Stalin wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, demanding the immediate release of Rs 2,152 crore under the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA). In the letter, he expressed concern over Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s statement that Tamil Nadu would not receive the funds if it did not implement the NEP.

Tamil Nadu CM’s Letter to the PM

The Tamil Nadu Chief Minister wrote, «This has caused immense concern and unrest among students, political parties, and the general public in our state.» He urged PM Modi to intervene directly. In response, Education Minister Pradhan countered Stalin’s letter, urging all southern states to rise above political differences for the benefit of students.

Responding to Stalin’s letter, Pradhan emphasized that the NEP aims to elevate India’s education system to global standards, with modernization as its primary goal. The Education Minister also clarified that the policy does not impose any specific language.

Stalin’s Counter to the Education Minister’s Claims

Stalin issued another response, warning the central government against «challenging Tamil identity.» He stated, «I caution the central government—do not disturb the beehive. Do not challenge Tamil identity. As long as I am here, as long as the DMK exists, nothing against Tamil, Tamil Nadu, or Tamils will be tolerated on this land.»

Addressing Pradhan’s allegation of politicizing education, the Chief Minister said, «We use funds for people’s welfare. You use them to create religious divisions and impose Hindi. The NEP was introduced not to reform education but to promote Hindi. Direct implementation would face strong opposition, which is why it is presented as the New Education Policy.»

Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM)

Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) is an Indian political party founded in 2018 by actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan. Based in Tamil Nadu, the party advocates for social justice, transparency, and grassroots democracy, positioning itself as an alternative to traditional Dravidian parties. MNM emphasizes anti-corruption, secularism, and equitable development, though it has yet to achieve significant electoral success.

New Education Policy (NEP)

The **New Education Policy (NEP)**, introduced in India in 2020, is a major reform aimed at transforming the country’s education system to meet 21st-century needs. It replaces the 34-year-old National Policy on Education (1986) and emphasizes holistic learning, flexibility, digital literacy, and multilingual education. Key changes include a 5+3+3+4 curricular structure, vocational training from an early age, and greater focus on research and critical thinking.

Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA)

Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) is an Indian government initiative launched in 2018 to improve school education by integrating existing schemes like Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA), Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan (RMSA), and Teacher Education (TE). It focuses on equitable and inclusive education from pre-school to Class XII, emphasizing access, quality, and infrastructure development. The program aims to strengthen education systems, reduce disparities, and align with the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of ensuring inclusive and quality education for all.

DMK

«DMK» likely refers to the **Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK)**, a prominent political party in Tamil Nadu, India, founded in 1949 by C. N. Annadurai. The party has played a key role in Tamil Nadu’s politics, advocating for social justice, Tamil nationalism, and state autonomy. Historically, it emerged from the Dravidian movement, which opposed Brahminical dominance and promoted Tamil cultural identity.

(If you meant a different «DMK,» please provide additional context.)

BJP

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is a major political party in India, founded in 1980, though its ideological roots trace back to the Bharatiya Jana Sangh (established in 1951). It promotes Hindu nationalism and conservative policies and has grown to become India’s dominant political force under leaders like Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Narendra Modi. The BJP has governed India since 2014, emphasizing economic development, national security, and cultural pride.

India bloc

The «India bloc» refers to a coalition of opposition political parties in India, formed to challenge the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in national elections. Historically, such alliances have emerged during key electoral periods, like the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) and National Democratic Alliance (NDA), to consolidate votes and present a united front. The India bloc represents a recent effort by opposition groups to collaborate on shared goals, such as safeguarding secularism and addressing economic disparities.

Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu, located in southern India, is a state renowned for its rich Dravidian culture, ancient temples, and classical Tamil heritage. It was home to powerful dynasties like the Cholas, Pandyas, and Pallavas, who built iconic temples such as the Brihadeeswarar Temple and Meenakshi Amman Temple. Today, Tamil Nadu is a vibrant hub of art, literature, music, and dance, including Bharatanatyam, while preserving its deep-rooted traditions.

Lok Sabha

The **Lok Sabha** is the lower house of India’s bicameral Parliament and the primary legislative body of the country. Established in 1952 after India’s independence, it consists of elected representatives who draft and pass laws, oversee the executive branch, and represent the people. Members are elected through general elections, with the house playing a key role in shaping India’s democracy and governance.