By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, April 23: Leading literary organisations, the Khasi Authors’ Society (KAS) and the Achik Literature Society (ALS), on Thursday described the state government’s decision to grant official language status to Khasi and Garo as a progressive step toward their inclusion in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution.
Both organisations stressed that the long-term success of this move will depend on a structured implementation framework. They called for a sustained commitment from the government to ensure both languages are fully integrated into administration, education, and governance.
KAS president Prof DRL Nonglait termed the decision a long-overdue recognition of linguistic identity. While noting that the move enhances cultural dignity, he cautioned that it should be viewed as a pathway toward the larger goal of Eighth Schedule inclusion.
Nonglait urged the government to frame detailed rules and guidelines as soon as the ordinance receives the Governor’s assent. He proposed that Khasi be gradually integrated into administrative functions, including official notifications and correspondence.
Regarding education, he recommended a phased introduction of Khasi as a medium of instruction, starting at the elementary level. He advocated for a balanced bilingual approach, ensuring English remains compulsory in Khasi-medium schools while Khasi is taught in English-medium institutions.
To address administrative challenges, the KAS president highlighted the need for capacity building and training for officials not fluent in Khasi. He also called for the establishment of dedicated translation cells, warning that without institutional support, the official status could remain largely symbolic.
Welcoming the proposal to allow Khasi and Garo in legislative proceedings, Nonglait said it would strengthen democratic participation. While acknowledging the current lack of interpretation systems, he maintained that these logistical hurdles could be overcome with proper planning.
Meanwhile, ALS secretary Dr Crystal Cornelius Marak described the decision as a milestone for the Garo community. He acknowledged that while the transition may present infrastructure and manpower challenges, the ALS is ready to support the government in making governance more inclusive and accessible for indigenous communities.
Both societies emphasised the need for close coordination between the state government and Members of Parliament to further the demand for constitutional recognition at the national level.
