In the final phase of reviewing public opinion on Maharashtra’s now-repealed three-language formula, the eight-member committee chaired by Dr Narendra Jadhav held discussions with experts and citizens in Mumbai on Friday. In an interview with mid-day, Dr Jadhav shared insights from the committee’s interactions and public polling. Edited excerpts from an interview:

Many felt that forming a committee was the wrong approach. Do you think the report risks becoming too broad with so many opinions?
Going to the public has strengthened the committee’s work. We repeatedly heard that major decisions need a grassroots touch. Several reversals in the past could have been avoided had there been a bottom-up approach. We now have a wide spectrum of views and data. The numbers will speak. We’ll analyse the data overall, region-wise, district-wise and by language medium. People are happy the government is asking for their input.