Khliehriat, April 14: A public meeting and rally were held in Khliehriat to raise awareness and press for granting Khasi full official language status in Meghalaya. The programme was organised by the Khasi Authors’ Society (KAS), Khliehriat, at the Wika Parking Lot and saw participation from student bodies, youth groups, educators and community leaders.
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| Students and community members hold placards during a rally in Khliehriat demanding that Khasi be granted full official language status in Meghalaya.(TNP) |
Addressing the gathering, KAS President D. R. L. Nonglait emphasised the need for stronger government initiatives to include the Khasi language in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India. He said that despite long-standing expectations, progress towards granting the language national recognition has remained slow.
Several organisations, including the Khasi Students’ Union and the Jaintia Students’ Movement, along with students, teachers and members of the public, took part in the rally to show their support for the demand.
Principal of Jaintia Eastern College, P. Nongtdu, who also addressed the gathering, stressed that students have an important role in preserving and promoting the Khasi language. He urged young people to actively contribute to safeguarding their linguistic heritage.
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Speakers at the event, including headman Justin Dkhar, highlighted that language plays a crucial role in preserving identity, culture and educational opportunities. They called for collective efforts from civil society, educational institutions and the government to ensure the long-term survival and recognition of the Khasi language.
Participants expressed hope that sustained public support and coordinated action would help secure official recognition for Khasi in the future.
