HSPDP urges govt to recognise Khasi & Garo as official languages

SHILLONG, Aug 14: The Hill State People’s Democratic Party (HSPDP) has called on the Meghalaya government to amend the Khasi and Garo languages’ status under the Meghalaya State Language Act of 2005, seeking official recognition to enhance job opportunities for local youth. The party has specifically urged the state to notify these languages under Section 6 of the Act, which would allow certificates and mark sheets in Khasi to be accepted as official language qualifications, making candidates eligible for recruitment in various central government offices, including the Department of Posts (GDS Section).
HSPDP leaders on Wednesday met Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma to apprise him of their demands.
The party highlighted the challenges faced by Gram Dak Sevaks (rural postmen), who often struggle to communicate with local residents due to their lack of knowledge of the Khasi and Garo languages.
This language barrier, according to the HSPDP, has led to communication difficulties, misunderstandings, delays, and an overall decline in the efficiency of postal services in rural areas.
The HSPDP emphasised that recognising Khasi and Garo as official languages would not only resolve these communication issues but also provide unemployed youth with better opportunities to compete for jobs in central government offices. The party urged the government to take swift action on the matter to improve service delivery and employment prospects in the state.