Expressing concerns over the “deteriorating” quality of education in Urdu-medium schools, the Chairman of the Maharashtra State Minority Commission, Pyare Zia Khan, has proposed converting all Urdu schools in the state into semi-English institutions.

Khan suggested teaching Maths and Science in English in all Urdu-medium schools from Std I as well as making Marathi a compulsory subject and providing computers in all Urdu schools, introducing Information Technology education from primary to higher secondary levels, training Urdu-medium teachers in modern teaching methodologies. The Engish proposal has faced strong opposition from various groups, who argue that it interferes with the autonomy of these schools and violates constitutional provisions.