Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh has expressed his gratitude to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for officially recognizing Manipuri as an Associate Official Language in Assam. Singh conveyed his appreciation during a telephonic conversation with Sarma, emphasizing the significance of this move for the Manipuri community in Assam.“The declaration of Manipuri as an Associate Official Language will undoubtedly benefit the Manipuri community in Assam and play a crucial role in preserving our language and culture for future generations,” Singh stated. He also expressed his thanks for Sarma’s assurance that Manipuri-speaking candidates in Assam will soon have the opportunity to take various exams in their native language.
In his response, Assam CM Sarma reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the Manipuri community. “The communities of all our Sister States are connected by shared values. We are dedicated to ensuring that the Manipuri community in Assam has access to opportunities for progress and growth,” Sarma said. On August 29, the Assam Government passed the Assam Official Language Amendment Bill, 2024, officially designating Manipuri as an Associate Official Language in four districts: Cachar, Hailakandi, Karimganj, and Hojai. This landmark decision addresses long-standing demands from the Manipuri-speaking population, particularly in the Barak Valley region.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pijush Hazarika presented the Bill, which was introduced in the House on August 22. It grants Manipuri the status of Associate Official Language alongside Assamese in the aforementioned districts.