In a recent event in Banka district, Bihar, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar voiced his dissatisfaction with the usage of English in public spaces. The occasion was the inauguration of a new digital library, where he discovered an English-language signboard. CM Kumar promptly admonished the officials present, asserting that the use of English undermines the prominence of Hindi, which he regards as an integral part of the Indian tradition.
He clarified that his objection was not against the English language itself but rather a plea for preserving and promoting Hindi, emphasizing its cultural significance. Kumar’s stance on this matter is consistent with his previous remarks on the encroachment of English into public discourse.
Earlier this year, CM Nitish Kumar made headlines when he rebuked a farmer for using English words during a speech at an event. He reminded the speaker that they were in “Bharat, Bihar,” not England, and lamented how the widespread use of smartphones during the COVID-19 pandemic had distanced people from their native language.
The incident in Banka occurred amid speculation that Nitish Kumar might reconsider his political alliances, leading to conjecture that he could align once more with the BJP.
The issue of language identity and preservation remains a subject of debate and discussion in India, with leaders like Nitish Kumar advocating for the promotion of Hindi while acknowledging the importance of multilingualism in a diverse nation.
