The Politics of Language in Rural Punjab : Exploring Social Stratification, Linguistic Capital and Power Dynamics through Critical Discourse Analysis

Abstract

This study examined the ways in which language practices help in constructing and deconstructing the social power relations in the rural areas of Punjab. The aim of the study was to determine how language use and impacts on the division of social classes especially in communication targeted at the lower strata. This study was adopted a qualitative research approach. Theoretical Frameworks used in this study are critical discourse analysis (CDA) by Fairclough’s and Bourdieu’s social and linguistic capital. Data collection technique was purposive sampling. 60 Participants of comprising community leaders, educators and cross section of the rural populace of Punjab were interviewed with the help of semi-structured interviews and prepared field notes for the period of six months from January 2024 to June 2024. Descriptive data analysis comprised the analysis of linguistic markers, socio cultural factors and discourse practices and it was found that language in rural Punjab is one of the most potent means of reinforcing social discrimination as well as social transformation. The findings showed that certain words and phrases, ways of referring to people, and ways of speaking are associated with social class and, not infrequently, with dominance. But examples were also found wherein the oppressed did actually employ language to challenges or undermine such power structures. By offering data about the use of language by people in the rural communities’ maintained social hierarchies and this work enriches the theoretical framework within sociolinguistics concept of linguistic capital and power relations. The study may be useful both for those who strive to apply principals of justice in the sphere of language planning and education, as well as for policymakers and educators interested in reducing social inequalities.