The three-language tangle: multilingualism vs federal trust

Question (10 marks, ~150 words):

The recurring controversy over the three-language formula reflects deeper tensions in India's federal and linguistic framework. Critically analyse.

Trace Kothari Commission → NPE 1968 → NEP 2020 (2 of 3 Indian, no imposition). Constitutional anchors: Concurrent List Entry 25 (42nd Amendment); Art. 343-351; Eighth Schedule; Art. 350A. Tension: Hindi-imposition fears (TN, 1965 agitation), policy-by-circular, teacher shortage; cite Census 2011 diversity. Way forward: phased, consultative, choice-based. Balanced.