A recent decision in Ajmer, Rajasthan, to convert eight Urdu-medium schools to Hindi-medium has sparked protests within the local Muslim community. This change is seen by many residents as an attack on their cultural and linguistic identity. These schools have been important centers of community life for many years.
These schools, including Government Primary Urdu School Badbaav and Government Girls High Primary Urdu School Andarkot, are located in areas with large Muslim populations, such as the Dargah area. Approximately 300 students attend these eight schools. The community views these institutions as vital to maintaining the Urdu language and culture for future generations.
Community leaders and parents argue that the switch to Hindi will create educational difficulties for many students. They also worry that their cultural heritage will slowly disappear. Protesters have been vocal in their opposition, demanding that the authorities reevaluate their decision. One local activist, Mohammad Farooq, declared, “We won’t tolerate this decision that is against the interest of the children of our community.”
This situation occurs amidst rising concerns about minority rights and the importance of protecting varied languages in India. The decision also brings up questions about the long-term consequences of such changes on students more comfortable with Urdu. Moreover, it causes concern about the future of Urdu-medium education in the region. The situation at these schools remains uncertain as opposition and protests continue to grow.