Protest in Jamshedpur for Santali Language Recognition

Locals under Adivasi Sengel Abhiyan rally for Santali language to gain first state language status in Jharkhand.

JAMSHEDPUR – In a quest for linguistic recognition, a one-day sit-in protest was staged in front of the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Jamshedpur.

Organized under the banner of the Adivasi Sengel Abhiyan, the demonstration was aimed at elevating the status of the Santali language to that of the primary state language of Jharkhand.

As per Article 343, the Santali language has not been given this status yet, the protestors said.

They said that MLAs and MPs from the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha have opposed the Ol Chiki script, a writing system used for Santali.

They also alleged that Marang Buru was given away by the government.

The protestors also demanded the approval of a Sarna Adivasi Religion code by the Governor.

In addition to these key issues, the protest was also in response to a slew of grievances. A list of these 10 grievances was submitted to the Deputy Commissioner, intended to be passed on to the Governor.

The protestors issued a stern warning that they would intensify their agitation if their demands were not met.