Recurrent debates regarding the status of English and the vernaculars in India extend far beyond a simple native–foreign language dichotomy. These discussions, framed within postcolonial discourse, often position adherence to foreign language as antithetical to nationalist sentiment, while advocacy for native languages becomes aligned with nationalism. Yet, implicitly at play is the pursuit of power and political dominance by those championing native languages. Language, being intrinsic to human consciousness, significantly shapes our understanding of and ability to transform the world. This paper critically explores how language shapes people’s lives in India, legitimizes hierarchical structures, and normalizes hegemony. It highlights the material implications of language education and the resulting social outcomes. The connection between language education and caste identity—particularly noticed by some marginalized caste groups—offers a fresh perspective.
Ranisha et al. (Tue,) studied this question.
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