Northeast Desk, 30th August: Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh expressed his gratitude to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for declaring Manipuri as an Associate Official Language in Assam. In a telephonic conversation, Singh emphasized the significance of this move in preserving the language and culture of the Manipuri community in Assam.
Singh stated, “The declaration of Manipuri as an Associate Official Language will undoubtedly give an edge to the Manipuri community in Assam and preserve our language and culture for generations to come.” He also thanked Sarma for ensuring that Manipuri-speaking candidates in Assam would soon have the opportunity to take various exams in their native language.
In response, Sarma reiterated his commitment to supporting the Manipuri community, stating, “The communities of all our Sister States are connected by shared values. We are committed to ensuring that the Manipuri community in Assam has access to opportunities for progress and growth.”
On August 29, the Assam Government passed the Assam Official Language Amendment Bill, 2024, officially declaring Manipuri an Associate Official Language in four districts. The move addresses long-standing demands from the Manipuri-speaking population, particularly in the Barak Valley.
The Bill, introduced by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pijush Hazarika on behalf of Chief Minister Sarma, grants Manipuri the status of Associate Official Language alongside Assamese in the districts of Cachar, Hailakandi, Karimganj, and Hojai. This historic decision reflects the Assam government’s commitment to preserving the cultural and linguistic identity of all communities within the state.