By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Oct 25: Disappointment reigns in the Garo Hills region as scholars and leaders are dismayed over the Garo language not finding a place in the list of 38 languages aspiring to be included in the Eighth Schedule.
“We are disappointed. I think the A’chik Literature Society (ALS) will react to it but I am really disappointed,” GHADC’s Deputy CEM, Nikman Marak said.
Stating that the ALS would have to take up the issue, he said, “We will support any stand they take.”
Sanggra Marak, an assistant professor of Don Bosco College in Tura, said: “ALS has to be more proactive. We really need to push. I think civil society and pressure groups need to voice in unison. We have to be vigorous and aggressive.”
He said it is difficult for people in the Garo Hills to meet the chief minister and other ministers frequently, but voices would be heard if all groups would stand behind the ALS.
ALS secretary, Crystal CD Marak declined to comment and said the ALS will issue a statement if required.
State BJP leader, Bernard N Marak said it is unfortunate that the Garo language has not been included in the list of 38 aspiring languages for inclusion in the Eighth Schedule. He also said the delay in deciding whether to push for the inclusion of Garo or A’chik played a part.
“We should also have taken care of some other reasons. The initiative should not end here. The effort to get Garo included in the Eighth Schedule must continue,” he said.
The FKJGP’s Garo Hills unit president, Pritam Marak hoped the intelligentsia across the Garo Hills, including the organisations in higher educational institutions, need to fight for the language.
“We are always willing to support the cause for recognition of the language,” he added.
