ABSTRACT
Language has always been a tool of the dominant and powerful to impose their ideology over the weaker sections. Colonialism and invasions have proven that the imposition of certain languages is effective and has a long-lasting effect on victimized societies. This chapter, through an in-depth analysis of the recent language policies and practices in India, aims to uncover the historical, political, and linguistic agenda behind the imposition of Hindi over other regional languages in India. The complex interplay between politics and language in an inclusive and multicultural society could lead to utilizing language as a tool to dominate, as in the past during the British rule in India. Conversely, the agenda for the imposition of Hindi could also be interpreted as a tool of resistance against foreign cultures, empowerment of indigenous resources, and an effective method of easy unification of the most diverse population. Through the analysis of the historical trajectory of the growth of the English language that helped in establishing power in the country, the research will also consider the impact and consequences of such imposed language policies in society, including how it can foster linguistic and cultural division, and marginalization, thus leading to a situation of internal colonialism in the country.
