SHILLONG: In a stirring address that underscored the intersection of cultural identity and political action, Meghalaya Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) President Vincent H. Pala declared that the movement to include the Khasi language in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution has gained unprecedented momentum during his tenure as a Member of Parliament.
Reflecting on his political journey, Pala noted that while the demand for the constitutional recognition of Khasi was relatively quiet during his first term as an MP, he has since taken aggressive steps to elevate the issue by engaging with numerous organizations and national stakeholders. He highlighted the pivotal role of the committee led by David Syiemlieh, which was tasked with securing this recognition.
Pala explained that a significant part of the early struggle involved the meticulous collection of data regarding the Khasi language, its speaker population, and its academic footprint across various universities.
To bridge the gap, he has fostered a powerful synergy between civil society groups, legal experts, and public representatives to ensure a unified front in this linguistic crusade.
As an MP, Pala expressed that he has worked tirelessly to refine all necessary criteria to bring the Khasi language to its current state of readiness. He revealed that while there are approximately 18 languages from across India currently vying for inclusion in the Eighth Schedule, he remains highly optimistic.
Once the Government of India introduces the requisite Bill in Parliament, Pala believes the Khasi language is now thoroughly prepared to meet every requirement without hurdle. He further praised the State Government’s decision to designate Khasi and Garo as Official Languages of Meghalaya, calling it a vital step for documentation and education. Driven by the conviction that
“The Language Lives, The Tribe Lives,” he urged officials and leaders to prioritize speaking Khasi and Garo within the state. He emphasized that full constitutional recognition would eventually allow these languages to be spoken on the floor of Parliament, a historic milestone that would allow the public to better understand and engage with critical social issues.
Turning his attention to the upcoming MP by-election, the MPCC President shared that the Congress Party is brimming with potential leaders capable of contesting the seat. While he acknowledged a strong wave of support among the youth for Manuel Badwar, Pala noted that Badwar has his own perspectives on the matter that must be considered.
Following directives from the High Command in Delhi, the MPCC is scheduled to hold a special meeting within the next two weeks to finalize their candidate.
Pala made it clear that the party’s decision will transcend internal politics, focusing instead on the welfare and protection of the Khasi-Jaintia hills and the indigenous community as a whole.
Although no one has formally applied for the ticket yet, he expressed absolute confidence that once a candidate is selected, the entire party will stand in solid unity to ensure a resounding victory for the sake of the land and its people.
