'Those Who Speak English Will Soon Feel Ashamed’: Amit Shah Calls For National Revival Of Indian Languages

Union Home Minister Amit Shah sparked fresh debate over language in India by declaring that those who speak English would “soon feel ashamed,” and that Indian society must reclaim its linguistic heritage, India Today reported.

Speaking at a book launch event, Shah emphasised that native Indian languages are central to the nation’s identity and should be prioritised over foreign ones.

"In this country, those who speak English will soon feel ashamed - the creation of such a society is not far away. I believe that the languages of our country are the jewels of our culture. Without our languages, we cease to be truly Indian,” Shah was quoted as saying by India Today.

Calling for a national movement to revive India’s traditional languages, Shah also claimed that English would increasingly be seen worldwide as a symbol of colonial slavery.

“To understand our country, our culture, our history, and our religion, no foreign language can suffice. The idea of a complete India cannot be imagined through half-baked foreign languages,” he added.

Admitting the challenge ahead, Shah acknowledged that the shift toward native languages would not be easy. 

However, he expressed strong optimism, saying he was fully confident that Indian society would succeed in this effort.

He added that with renewed self-respect, the country would once again be run in its own languages and eventually lead the world.

Shah had earlier said that starting December 2025, the Home Ministry would begin official communication with states in their respective native languages to bridge linguistic divides.

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