Assam Assembly Passes Bill to Make Manipuri an Associate Official Language

The Assam Assembly passed a Bill making Manipuri the associate official language in three Barak valley districts and in Hojai. Introduced by CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, the Bill recognizes Manipuri due to persistent community demands. It amends the Assam Official Language Act, 1960, to include Manipuri in Schedule-II for official purposes.

The Assam Assembly on Thursday passed a Bill making Manipuri the associate official language in three Barak valley districts and in Hojai. This legislative change came after consistent demands from the Manipuri-speaking community for official recognition.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pijush Hazarika introduced The Assam Official Language (Amendment) Bill, 2024 on August 22, on behalf of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who also manages the home and political department.

Chief Minister Sarma stated that the amendment, marking a historic day, responds to long-standing demands for the official use of Manipuri. The law will incorporate Manipuri as an Associate Official Language for specified official purposes in Schedule-II across the districts of Cachar, Karimganj, Hailakandi, and Hojai.

(With inputs from agencies.)