HNLC slam Centre’s failure to include Khasi & Garo languages in 8th Schedule

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJuly 1, 2024

The proscribed Hynniewtrep National Liberation Councl (HNLC) on Monday hailed the Google’s decision to give recognition to the Khasi language even as it slammed the government’s failure to include both Khasi and Garo languages in the Eighth Schedule to the Constitution of India. 

In a statement, HNLC general secretary-cum-publicity secretary Sainkupar Nongtraw said, “The HNLC is pleased to announce the recent acknowledgment of our indigenous language by Google, highlighting the importance of conserving and celebrating our linguistic heritage. This recognition emphasizes the collective efforts needed to advocate for the official recognition of our language by the Indian government.”

“The HNLC is committed to highlighting the cultural significance and preservation of our indigenous language, a fundamental aspect of our heritage and identity. Its protection is crucial in upholding our unique cultural narrative and passing it down to future generations. Recognizing our language not only fosters cultural pride and unity but also opens up possibilities for socio-economic progress and communal well-being,” he said while adding that Google’s recognition demonstrates the increasing global recognition of linguistic diversity. 

He asserted that it is important for the government of India to actively acknowledge and support our indigenous language to strengthen our cultural values, enhance community welfare, and contribute to the overarching goal of safeguarding linguistic heritage.

On the other hand, the HNLC leader said that the Chief Minister Conrad Sangma’s recent appeal to Google for the recognition of the Garo language raises concerns about his priorities. 

“It is essential for the Chief Minister to focus on urging the central government to include both the Khasi and Garo languages in the 8th schedules instead of promoting individual interests,” he said

Slamming the Centre’s delay to give recognition  to the two indigenous languages of the state, Nongtraw said, “The government’s failure to acknowledge our indigenous language signals an intent to suppress, alienate, and disconnect us from our historical roots by hindering the learning and usage of our native language.”

He said that out of the 7,000 different languages spoken worldwide and out of the 700 languages in India, the Khasi language has gained recognition by Google Translate. This marks a historic milestone.

Regarding the status of the Khasi language, Nongtraw said that UNESCO’s recognition in 2012 as an endangered language and subsequent reclassification as safe showcases progress. 

“However, the sustainability of our language’s safety hinges on the government’s acknowledgment. The question persists: for how long can our language remain secure without government recognition? They open the door for our people to join the army and police to fight for them, but they don’t provide us with justice, not just for one day, as I recall. I remember the original song by Status Quo called “In the Army Now,” with lyrics like “You’ve got your orders, better shoot on sight, your finger’s on the trigger but it doesn’t seem right,” which speak for itself,” he said while adding that  due to the oppressive government policies and the ongoing injustices of the government, there will be no good relationship with the Hynniewtrep nation; it will only be a ‘go along and get along’ relation.