Assam Assembly passes Bill to make Manipuri an associate official language

On Thursday, the Assam Assembly passed a bill making Manipuri the associate official language in three districts of Barak Valley and Hojai. This legislative change came after persistent demands by the Manipuri-speaking community for its 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 heads the home and political department.

Chief Minister Sarma said the amendment, which commemorates a historic day, responds to long-standing demands for official use of Manipuri. The Act will incorporate Manipuri as an Associate Official Language for specified official purposes in List II in the districts of Cachar, Karimganj, Hailakandi and Hojai.

(With contributions from agencies.)