India is a diverse country with a plethora of languages spoken within its borders. With more than 19,500 languages and dialects, India is the world’s second-largest multilingual country. However, the question that arises is whether Hindi is the national language of India as per the constitution?
The answer to this question is both yes and no. Let’s delve into the details to understand the nuances of the situation. Firstly, it is essential to know that the Constitution of India does not define any national language for the country. Instead, it recognizes Hindi and English as the official languages of the Union.
Article 343 of the Indian Constitution states that the official language of the Union shall be Hindi in Devanagari script. However, it also states that English may continue to be used for official purposes until a resolution is passed to discontinue its use. Therefore, both Hindi and English serve as the official languages of the Union.
However, it is essential to note that India is a country with a diverse linguistic heritage, and the Constitution recognizes this. Therefore, it mandates that all languages spoken in the country be given equal status and respect. Article 345 of the Constitution empowers the states to choose their official language, and many states have chosen languages other than Hindi.
Moreover, the Constitution also recognizes the importance of preserving and promoting the various regional languages spoken in the country. Article 350A affirms the right of every citizen to receive education in their mother tongue. Therefore, the Constitution recognizes the significance of all languages spoken in the country and does not give precedence to any one language over others.
In conclusion, while Hindi is recognized as an official language of the Union, it is not the national language of India as per the Constitution. The Constitution recognizes the significance of all languages spoken in the country and mandates that they be given equal status and respect. Therefore, it is essential to promote and preserve the linguistic diversity of India to maintain its cultural richness.