Manipur Language

1. Manipur CM N Biren Singh thanked Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma for declaring Manipuri as an Associate Official Language in Assam.
2. Singh expressed his deep appreciation during a phone call, highlighting the significance of this decision.
3. He emphasized that this move will greatly help in preserving the language and culture of the Manipuri community in Assam.

Imphal, Aug 30: 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.

During a phone call with Sarma, Singh conveyed his deep appreciation, emphasizing that this decision would significantly contribute to preserving the language and culture of the Manipuri community in Assam.

Singh stated, “Recognizing Manipuri as an Associate Official Language will undoubtedly empower the Manipuri community in Assam and help safeguard our language and culture for future generations.”

He also thanked Sarma for ensuring that Manipuri-speaking candidates in Assam would soon be able to take various exams in their native language.

In response, CM Sarma reaffirmed Assam’s commitment to supporting the Manipuri community, stating, “The communities of our Sister States are united by shared values. We are dedicated to providing opportunities for progress and growth to the Manipuri community in Assam.”

On August 29, the Assam Government passed the Assam Official Language Amendment Bill, 2024, officially designating Manipuri as an Associate Official Language in four districts.

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This historic decision comes in response to longstanding demands from the Manipuri-speaking population, particularly in the Barak Valley.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pijush Hazarika introduced the Bill on behalf of the Chief Minister.

The Bill, introduced in the House on August 22, grants Manipuri Associate Official Language status alongside Assamese in the three districts of Barak Valley—Cachar, Hailakandi, and Karimganj—as well as in Hojai district in central Assam.

A significant number of Manipuri-speaking people reside in the Barak Valley and other regions of Assam.

“The demand for official recognition of their language has been persistent, and the government remains committed to preserving the cultural and linguistic identity of every community in the state,” said Chief Minister Sarma in his Statement of Objects and Reasons.