The DMK government in Tamil Nadu, led by chief minister M.K. Stalin, has taken its fight against Hindi to another level. It is contemplating introducing a bill to ban Hindi films, songs and hoardings in the state. The ban will apply to cinemas as well as public events. Those found guilty of violation will be penalised for non-compliance.
The legislation is expected to be tabled in the state Assembly forthwith in a bid to protect the Tamil language and cultural identity amid what the state government feels is an “imposition” of Hindi on the Southern state. The BJP has criticised the move as being divisive and politically motivated. Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu are due next year.
The bill seeks to mandate Tamil as the primary language for public display and entertainment within the state.
Some Tamil film representatives in the state have supported the impending bill, viewing it as upholding Tamil pride and protecting local industries from Hindi dominance.
