Chennai: Tamil Nadu School Education Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi has alleged that Union Home Minister Amit Shah opposes the widespread use of English because it enables social mobility among the poor and marginalized communities.

Speaking to reporters, Minister Mahesh said:

“English can no longer be dismissed as a colonial legacy. It has become an instrument of progress across the world. Even countries like China, Japan, South Korea, Israel, and Germany ensure their citizens learn English — not due to any colonial hangover, but to stay ahead in science, technology, and global business.”

Highlighting China's emphasis on English education despite its strong nationalist sentiments, he pointed out that India should view English similarly — as essential for national development.

He further alleged that Amit Shah and the RSS deliberately portray English as a marker of elitism to prevent its spread among the poor, Scheduled Castes, and Backward Classes.

“They want to keep English as inaccessible to the masses as Sanskrit once was. This is not about language; it is about controlling who gets access to power,” he claimed.

Minister Mahesh stressed that for the DMK, Tamil represents cultural identity while English opens doors to global opportunities. “In Tamil Nadu, we ensure every child has the chance to learn both. Language must be a ladder, not a wall,” he said, adding that Amit Shah's real fear is not English but the equality and progress it brings.