Manipuri Language Recognized as an Associate Official Language in Four Assam Districts

Manipuri Language Recognized as an Associate Official Language in Four Assam Districts

SANAHAL SINGHA

The All Assam Manipuri Students’ Union (AAMSU) has long been advocating for the recognition of the Manipuri language as an Associate Official Language in areas of Assam where the Manipuri population is significant. After years of persistent efforts, their demands have finally been met.

On February 23, 2024, the Government of Assam made a landmark announcement during a Cabinet meeting, declaring that Manipuri would be recognized as an Associate Official Language in the districts of Hojai, Cachar, Hailakandi, and Karimganj.

This decision marked a significant victory for the Manipuri community in Assam, highlighting the government’s commitment to preserving and promoting the linguistic diversity of the state.

Following this announcement, the Government of Assam took a crucial step forward by passing a bill in the Assam Legislative Assembly on Thursday, August 29, 2024. This bill officially recognizes Manipuri as an Associate Official Language in the four aforementioned districts, solidifying the language’s status and ensuring its use in administrative and official matters within these regions.

The All Assam Manipuri Students’ Union has expressed deep and sincere gratitude to the Government of Assam and the Chief Minister, Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, for this historic initiative. In a statement, the AAMSU conveyed their appreciation for the government’s recognition of the Manipuri language, acknowledging the importance of this decision for the Manipuri community in Assam.

In addition to thanking the government, the AAMSU extended their heartfelt gratitude to various Indigenous organizations that have supported their cause over the years. These organizations include the All Moran Students’ Union, All Dimasa Students’ Union, All Assam Sonowal Kachari Students’ Union, All Assam Deori Students’ Union, Axom Jatiyatabadi Yuva Parishad, Indigenous Forum, Assam, All Adivasi Students’ Association of Assam, and many others. Their unwavering support has been instrumental in achieving this milestone.

The recognition of Manipuri as an Associate Official Language is a testament to the strength and unity of the Manipuri community in Assam, as well as the collaborative efforts of various Indigenous groups. It underscores the importance of preserving linguistic and cultural diversity in the state, setting a positive example for other communities striving for similar recognition.

As the Manipuri language takes its rightful place in the administrative framework of these four districts, the AAMSU and the Manipuri community can take pride in this significant achievement, which will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the cultural and linguistic landscape of Assam.

02-09-2024

Mahabahu.com is an Online Magazine with collection of premium Assamese and English articles and posts with cultural base and modern thinking.  You can send your articles to editor@mahabahu.com / editor@mahabahoo.com (For Assamese article, Unicode font is necessary) Images from different sources.