Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday called on Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin to introduce engineering and medical education in Tamil, reigniting the ongoing language debate in the state. Speaking at the 56th Raising Day of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) at RTC Thakkolam, Shah also highlighted the Modi government’s efforts to promote regional languages in competitive exams.

Shah pointed out that aspirants for the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) can now write their exams in Tamil, a change implemented by the Centre to support linguistic diversity. “Prime Minister Narendra Modi has ensured that the CAPF exam can now be written in Tamil too,” he said.

Targeting Stalin on the language issue, Shah emphasized the need for higher education in regional languages. “I appeal to the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister to introduce engineering and medical education in Tamil for the benefit of students,” he said.

Shah’s remarks come amid DMK’s strong opposition to the alleged imposition of Hindi through the National Education Policy (NEP 2020). The state government has consistently defended its two-language policy, insisting on Tamil and English as the mediums of instruction.

During his speech, Shah praised Tamil Nadu’s cultural heritage, acknowledging its contributions to education, administration, and national unity. “Tamil Nadu has reinforced Indian culture in every sphere, from governance to spiritual achievements,” he noted.

He also highlighted the renaming of CISF’s Thakkolam Training Center as ‘Rajadithya Chozhan RTC,’ in honor of Aditya Chola, a warrior king of the Chola dynasty. “Aditya Chola’s legacy of bravery and sacrifice remains an inspiration, strengthening the glorious traditions of Tamil Nadu,” he said.

Shah commended the CISF’s contribution to national security, stating that the force plays a key role in PM Modi’s vision of making India the third-largest economy and a developed nation by 2047. “Industrial growth, business hubs, and research institutes all rely on CISF for security. Their dedication ensures India’s steady progress in these sectors,” he said.

As part of the CISF Raising Day celebrations, Shah:

• Released the CISF magazine ‘Sentinel’
• Inaugurated a gym
• Laid foundation stones for six welfare projects worth ₹94.37 crore

Earlier, he paid floral tributes to CISF personnel who lost their lives in service.

Shah’s call for Tamil-medium professional education adds a new dimension to the language debate between the DMK-led Tamil Nadu government and the BJP-led Centre, setting the stage for further political discussions in the state.

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