BJD MP Patra Demands: Biju Janata Dal (BJD) Member of Parliament, Dr. Sasmit Patra, has raised a significant demand in the Rajya Sabha, calling for the inclusion of Ho, Mundari, Bhumij, Kui, and Saora languages in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution.
Addressing the Upper House, Dr. Patra emphasized that these languages are not mere modes of communication but the cultural and linguistic identity of millions of tribal people across multiple states. He underscored that granting them official recognition is crucial for preserving India’s linguistic and cultural diversity while upholding constitutional commitments to protect the rights of Scheduled Tribes.
Languages and Their Reach
Dr. Patra highlighted the geographical spread of these languages:
- Ho: Spoken in Odisha, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Chhattisgarh.
- Mundari: Predominantly used in Odisha, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Assam.
- Bhumij: Commonly spoken in Odisha, Jharkhand, and West Bengal.
- Kui: Mainly spoken in Odisha and parts of Andhra Pradesh.
- Saora: Found in Odisha and Andhra Pradesh.
While Odisha remains home to the largest number of speakers of these languages, their influence extends into several neighboring states, including Jharkhand, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Assam, Andhra Pradesh, and Bihar.
Long-Pending Demand
Dr. Patra pointed out that despite their historical and cultural significance, the exclusion of these languages from the Eighth Schedule has deprived millions of indigenous people of recognition, development support, and constitutional protections. He also credited former Odisha Chief Minister and BJD President, Shri Naveen Patnaik, for championing this cause.
“The Odisha Cabinet, under Shri Naveen Patnaik ji’s leadership, formally approved this demand through a resolution, making it a clear policy commitment. The Odisha Government has written multiple letters to the Centre, urging immediate action,” he stated.
Appeal to the Union Government
Dr. Patra strongly urged the Union Government to honor the resolution passed by the Odisha Cabinet and fulfill the aspirations of tribal communities by including these languages in the Eighth Schedule.
“This is not just about linguistic recognition; it is a matter of justice, dignity, and constitutional equality for millions of indigenous citizens,” he asserted.
The demand for linguistic inclusion continues to gain traction, with various tribal and cultural organizations backing the move. Now, the focus shifts to the Centre’s response to this pressing appeal.
