Countercurrents.org is organising a webinar (Zoom) in honour of K.P.Sasi, film maker, cartoonist, social activist on April 15th, 2025 at 6 PM India Time.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82292221179?pwd=O7A90T6JBcaeq7l5VHqycxRfsoxaIy.1
Meeting ID: 822 9222 1179
Passcode: Sasi
Speakers and Panelists:
Prof. Kancha Ilaiah, Social scientist, academic and writer
Prof. G.N.Devy, Cultural activist, linguist and literary critic
Prof. Apoorvanand, Political analyst, academic and writer
Overview
This webinar explores the complex interplay between language policies and political discourse in contemporary India. The session will examine how language policies become political flashpoints and how political language often obscures substantive socioeconomic issues. The webinar is being organized by Countercurrents.org in memory of well-known filmmaker and activist K.P. Sasi, to honour his legacy as someone who consistently challenged dominant narratives and advocated for marginalized communities.
Context
India’s New Education Policy (NEP) has sparked significant controversy with its emphasis on implementing Hindi as a mandatory third language in non-Hindi speaking states. Several states, particularly Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, have strongly opposed this policy, advocating instead for a bilingual approach that prioritizes mother tongue instruction alongside English. This debate represents deeper tensions around federalism, cultural identity, and regional autonomy.
Key Themes
The Three-Language Formula Controversy
The webinar will critically examine the implications of the NEP’s three-language formula, analyzing how it has been received across different states. Speakers will discuss historical contexts of language movements in India and evaluate arguments both supporting and opposing Hindi’s mandatory inclusion in education and government operations.
Beyond Linguistic Nationalism
While language is undeniably important for cultural identity and education, development extends far beyond linguistic considerations. The session will explore how genuine social progress depends on addressing fundamental inequities related to gender, caste, class, and access to basic services including healthcare, nutrition, and economic opportunity.
Language as Political Distraction
The webinar will analyze how language controversies often function as political diversions, drawing public attention away from pressing socioeconomic challenges. Speakers will discuss how political rhetoric around language can obscure government accountability on issues of infrastructure, employment, and public welfare.
Reclaiming Political Discourse
Drawing inspiration from K.P. Sasi’s work in making complex political issues accessible through film and activism, the session will conclude by exploring strategies for reclaiming political discourse. Participants will discuss how to refocus public debate on substantive policy issues rather than symbolic linguistic battles.
Format
- Opening remarks and tribute to K.P. Sasi (15 minutes)
- Panel discussion with linguists, education policy experts, and social activists (45 minutes)
- Interactive Q&A with audience participation (25 minutes)
- Concluding reflections and call to action (5 minutes)
