Shillong, April 16: The Meghalaya Cabinet has approved the Meghalaya Official Languages Ordinance, 2026, granting official language status to Khasi and Garo alongside English in the state.
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| Conrad K. Sangma chairs a Meghalaya Cabinet meeting where the government approved the ordinance granting official language status to Khasi and Garo alongside English. (Image: x.com/SangmaConrad) |
Announcing the decision, CM Conrad K. Sangma said the Cabinet has also decided to repeal the Meghalaya State Language Act, 2005, marking a significant step in promoting indigenous languages in governance and administration.
Under the new ordinance, Khasi and Garo will be allowed to be used in official government communications. The move is expected to strengthen the role of local languages in administrative processes across Meghalaya.
The Chief Minister stated that necessary amendments will also be made to relevant laws, including the Meghalaya State Legislature (Continuance of English Language) Act, 1980. Once these changes are implemented, legislators will be able to speak and debate in Khasi and Garo during Assembly sessions along with English.
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The decision will also pave the way for the use of Khasi and Garo in various examinations conducted in the state. However, the government noted that implementation will take time as the required administrative framework is gradually put in place.
According to the Chief Minister, the move aligns with the Assembly’s resolution seeking the inclusion of Khasi and Garo in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India. The government believes granting official status at the state level will strengthen the case for their inclusion in the Eighth Schedule by the Government of India.
The Cabinet described the ordinance as a historic decision aimed at preserving and promoting Meghalaya’s indigenous languages while expanding their use in governance and public institutions.
