Education activists and Marathi language supporters have raised fresh concerns over the condition and future of Marathi-medium school infrastructure in Mumbai. On Sunday, members of Marathi Abhyas Kendra, a cultural and language group, held a public session in Dadar to highlight what they allege is the steady demolition or closure of Marathi school buildings across the city. According to the group, several schools that once served local communities are either being shut down or repurposed, leaving Marathi-medium students with fewer options.
I am writing about this issue because it touches a sensitive point for Mumbai’s identity and its education system. Marathi schools are not just places of learning; they represent language, culture, and access to education for thousands of families. Over the years, I have seen repeated discussions around falling enrolment and infrastructure neglect, but very little sustained action on the ground. When education activists come together and announce a protest, it signals deeper frustration. This is not just about buildings being removed; it is about what replaces them and whether Marathi-medium education still has institutional support in India’s financial capital. For parents, teachers, and policymakers, this debate deserves serious attention before irreversible decisions are made.
What Happened at the Dadar Session
The session organised by Marathi Abhyas Kendra in Dadar brought together activists, educators, and concerned citizens. Speakers pointed out instances where Marathi school premises were allegedly razed or allowed to deteriorate without proper plans for rebuilding or relocation.
They argued that these actions directly affect students from middle- and lower-income families who rely on affordable Marathi-medium education.
Allegations Around School Demolitions
According to the activists, several Marathi schools run by civic authorities have faced:
- Poor maintenance of existing buildings
- Closure due to low enrolment without revival plans
- Demolition linked to redevelopment projects
- Temporary relocation that later becomes permanent shutdown
The group claims that once a school building is demolished, reopening it becomes nearly impossible.
Call for Protest on December 18
Following the Dadar meeting, Marathi Abhyas Kendra announced a protest scheduled for Thursday, December 18. The protest will take place outside the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation headquarters, after which participants plan to march to Azad Maidan.
The organisers say this demonstration is meant to pressure civic authorities to stop further damage to Marathi school infrastructure and to start meaningful dialogue.
Why Marathi Schools Matter in Mumbai
Marathi-medium schools play a crucial role in preserving the city’s linguistic and cultural roots. They also provide accessible education for families who may not afford private English-medium schools.
Experts often point out that strong mother-tongue education in early years improves learning outcomes and confidence among students.
What Activists Are Demanding
The key demands raised by education activists include:
- Immediate halt to demolition of Marathi school buildings
- Transparent policy on redevelopment affecting schools
- Investment in modernising existing Marathi schools
- Clear roadmap to increase enrolment and trust
They argue that without these steps, Marathi-medium education in Mumbai will continue to weaken.
