Tura, April 17: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Friday met members of the A’chik Literary Society in Tura to discuss the government’s recent decision to include Khasi and Garo as official languages of Meghalaya alongside English.
During the meeting, the Chief Minister described the move as a historic step towards recognising and promoting the linguistic heritage of the state. He said the decision was aimed at sending a strong message to both the people and the Government of India on the importance of promoting local languages at all levels.
Sangma noted that the demand to recognise Khasi and Garo as official languages has existed for many years and expressed satisfaction that the Cabinet has now taken the decision. He added that while full implementation in government communication, administration, and examinations would take time, the process has been formally initiated.
He further informed that legislative proceedings would gradually incorporate the use of Khasi and Garo, adding that it would be appropriate for debates in the upcoming Autumn Assembly Session to be conducted in these languages at the new Assembly building.
The Chief Minister also sought the support of the A’chik Literary Society in drafting the necessary rules and frameworks for implementation, emphasizing the need to ensure that the decision is carried out effectively and achieves its intended impact.
He acknowledged the contributions of the Society in preserving and promoting the Garo language, stating that their efforts have been instrumental in reaching this milestone. Members of the A’chik Literary Society welcomed the decision and reaffirmed their commitment to further promote and develop the Garo language.
