KOHIMA, June 21: Amid growing national discussions on the status and role of the English language in Indian society, the Naga People’s Front (NPF) and the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) have issued strong statements defending the continued use and significance of English, particularly in the context of Nagaland.
The statements come in response to Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s remark on June 19 that those who speak English in India will “soon feel ashamed.” The NPF, in a statement released on Friday, expressed deep concern over what it described as a “dismissive attitude” toward a language that has long served as a unifying force in India’s diverse linguistic landscape.
“Such a statement, coming from a figure of high national responsibility, is both unfortunate and disappointing,” the NPF said. “To suggest that speaking English is something to be ashamed of is to overlook the pivotal role that the language has played in uniting our diverse country.”
The party underscored that English has functioned as a neutral and practical medium of communication, especially in a nation where state boundaries are often drawn along linguistic lines. It also noted that millions of Indians, particularly from rural and marginalised communities, have used English as a means to access global knowledge, participate in international discourse, and pursue wider opportunities.
“Far from being a symbol of shame, English has enabled millions of Indians—especially from rural and marginalised backgrounds—to access global knowledge, participate in international discourse, and pursue opportunities beyond regional limitations,” the NPF emphasized.
While asserting the importance of regional languages, the NPF clarified that “pride in our mother tongues and the practical value of English are not mutually exclusive,” adding, “True national pride lies in our ability to embrace plurality, not impose uniformity.”
In a separate statement, the ruling NDPP weighed in on the broader language debate, without directly referencing Shah’s remarks. The party reaffirmed that English remains the officially declared language of Nagaland, a status that, it pointed out, is “not recent” but “rooted in our history.”
“English has played a pivotal role for over a century, particularly in the domains of education, governance, and religion,” the NDPP noted. At the same time, the party reiterated its commitment to preserving and promoting indigenous languages that are central to the identity, culture, and heritage of the people of Nagaland.
The NDPP highlighted that English continues to be a crucial bridge both within India and with the global community. “Language is not merely a tool for communication; it is a powerful medium for the exchange of knowledge, culture, and ideas,” the statement said.
In the context of Nagaland’s rich tapestry of tribes, sub-tribes, and dialects, the NDPP remarked, “Our youth are dynamic, enterprising, and globally engaged. One of the key enablers of their success—within India and across the world—has been their fluency in multiple languages, particularly English.”
The party also emphasized that India’s democratic framework is built on principles of diversity, inclusiveness, and tolerance. “The country’s federal structure acknowledges and respects the plurality of identities and cultures, including the unique voices of minorities,” it said.
The NDPP concluded by reaffirming its belief that all cultures and languages must be valued, and that mutual respect and understanding should serve as a cornerstone of national unity. “This inclusivity is a strength that contributes to the greatness of our nation,” it added.
