SHILLONG: The Meghalaya State Anthem has become the centre of a linguistic debate in the state as Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma defended the exclusion of the Jaintia language from the anthem.
Sangma, highlighting the need to adhere to existing laws, cited the Meghalaya State Language Act 2005, as the sole foundation for finalising the anthem’s composition.
“The rationalisation gets challenging. We must act in accordance with the provisions of the laws and regulations,” declared Sangma on January 23, shedding light on the complexities faced by the government in linguistic decisions.
Despite English holding the official language status, Khasi and Garo are recognised as associate official languages in the state, prompting Sangma to navigate the delicate balance within the legal framework.
Backing Sangma’s stance, Art and Culture Minister Paul Lyngdoh stood firm on the use of English, Khasi, and Garo in the State Anthem.
ALSO READ Meghalaya Congress joins JSU in demanding inclusion of Jaintia language in state anthem
He asserted that, until amendments are made to the Meghalaya State Language Act of 2005, no alterations to the Anthem will be entertained.
Speaking to reporters, Lyngdoh stressed on the need for respecting the existing legal framework.
“I don’t think anyone has the liberty to add or subtract and bring forth any new version to the Anthem unless there are amendments to the Language Act which is in place,” he stated.
Lyngdoh delved into the essence of the Anthem, highlighting its focus on unity within Meghalaya.
“The Anthem is really about uniting Meghalaya,” he remarked, highlighting the historical ties and commonalities shared by the Jaintia and Khasi communities.
Elaborating on the intertwined culture, Lyngdoh explained, “We have always held the view that the Jaintia and Khasi people are a single, harmonious group.”
He further pointed out the shared creation myths, history, and customs, making a case for considering these similarities.
Highlighting the broader objective, Lyngdoh stated that implementing the Anthem aims to promote the inclusion of Khasi and Garo languages in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution.
Reflecting on the ongoing debate, Lyngdoh concluded, “I’m not sure what kind of song we can write if every dialect has to be added to the Anthem.”
