Rahul Gandhi: English Is Empowering, Not Shameful – Must Be Taught to Every Child

New Delhi, June 22, 2025 – Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Friday strongly advocated for the universal teaching of English in India, calling it a powerful tool of empowerment and equality rather than a source of shame. Taking to social media, Gandhi accused the BJP-RSS of intentionally keeping poor children from learning English to prevent them from questioning authority and striving for progress.

In a post written in Hindi on X, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha declared, “English is not a dam, it is a bridge. English is not shameful, it is empowering. English is not a chain – it is a tool to break the chains.”

Gandhi alleged that the ruling ideological forces in India do not want children from economically disadvantaged backgrounds to learn English, fearing it would enable them to demand their rights and disrupt existing hierarchies. “The BJP-RSS don’t want poor kids of India to learn English – because they don’t want you to ask questions, move ahead, and attain equality,” he stated.

Highlighting the global significance of the language, Gandhi asserted that English today is as vital as one's mother tongue. He argued that it not only opens doors to employment but also builds confidence among youth.

“Every language of India carries its own soul, culture, and knowledge. We must honour and preserve them. But alongside, we must also ensure every child is taught English,” Gandhi said. “This is the path to an India that competes with the world and offers equal opportunity to every child.”

The Congress leader’s remarks come amid ongoing debates around language policy in education, especially with the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP), which emphasises instruction in regional languages at the primary level.

Gandhi has previously criticised the BJP’s educational approach, claiming it marginalises the poor and limits access to tools that promote socio-economic mobility. His comments are likely to spark renewed discussion over language, education, and equity in India’s public discourse.

With a clear stance, Gandhi reinforced his party’s commitment to inclusive and forward-looking education, underlining that language should be a ladder, not a barrier.

Source : The Hindu