Madurai CPI(M) MP Su Venkatesan, has stirred a fresh controversy by suggesting that a key factor behind several recent railway accidents is the deployment of other state staffs unfamiliar with the local language of the region have contributed to safety lapses.
The comments came during a review meeting held at the Madurai District Collector’s office, chaired by Collector Praveen Kumar, which focused on issues within the Public Distribution System. Su. Venkatesan, present at the meeting, also addressed reporters afterward.
He pointed out that the promotional examination conducted by Southern Railway last week violated a key guideline that question papers must be available in English, Hindi, and the local state language. However, the test reportedly included only English and Hindi, with Tamil omitted entirely.
“I have written to the Railway Minister urging that the exam be annulled and reconducted with the inclusion of Tamil,” Venkatesan stated, adding that he expects a decision on the matter soon.
He also criticized a new Southern Railway directive advising officers to improve their Hindi skills, calling it an unfair imposition. According to Venkatesan, such one-sided language policies not only marginalize regional languages but can also have serious operational consequences.
Citing safety concerns, he said, “Advise has been given to officials to train and develop their personality in Hindi. The language problem is not just related to the office. A major reason for many recent railway accidents is the employment of staff who do not know the state’s language.”
His remarks have drawn both support and criticism, with some viewing it as a necessary stand for linguistic inclusion, while others argue it could deepen regional divides.
(With inputs from Hindu Tamil)
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