DMK MP Dayanidhi Maran has sparked controversy by criticizing certain states for encouraging students to study only Hindi while discouraging English education, linking such policies to unemployment and migration to southern states. Speaking at an event, Maran alleged that students are often told not to study English, warning that doing so would “ruin” them and leave them “as slaves,” remarks that reignited debates over Hindi imposition.

He attributed the movement of people from northern states to the south to these educational practices, highlighting Tamil Nadu’s Dravidian model, which promotes equal access to education for both girls and boys and has contributed to higher literacy and workforce participation among women. Maran noted that Tamil Nadu’s focus on education has attracted top global companies to the state, boosting economic growth.

Maran argued that restricting education to Hindi limits students’ opportunities and future prospects, acting as a barrier to growth and employment. The BJP condemned his remarks, calling them senseless and demanding an apology to Hindi-speaking communities.

Defending Maran, DMK leader TKS Elangovan said women in northern states lack sufficient support and emphasized Tamil Nadu’s longstanding efforts to empower women through education, employment, and reserved government jobs, noting that the state has consistently worked toward advancing women’s rights.